When the summer heat kicks in, so do open windows, backyard hangouts, and weekend getaways. But while you’re trying to stay cool, don’t forget that small, high-value items—like phones, tablets, smartwatches, and jewellery—can be easy pickings for opportunistic thieves. Here’s how to enjoy the season without putting your stuff at risk.

Why Summer Poses a Security Risk

• Open windows and doors provide easy access.
• Frequent time away from home (vacations, BBQs, beach trips).
• Lax routines—we often let our guard down in relaxed summer mode.

1. Keep Valuables Out of Sight

Even if a thief doesn’t enter your home, a visible phone or tablet on a windowsill is an open invitation.

• Avoid charging devices near open windows.
• Don’t leave items in plain view on counters or tables.
• Use curtains or blinds, especially on street-facing windows.

2. Designate a “Safe Spot”

Pick a drawer, closet, or lockbox to store small electronics when not in use.

• Consider a discreet safe or lockable cabinet.
• Don’t choose obvious spots like under the mattress or in the sock drawer.

3. Use Smart Home Alerts

Even basic smart home setups can help deter theft.

• Install window/door sensors that send alerts to your phone.
• Use motion detectors with notifications or lights to spook intruders.
• Consider smart cameras for visible deterrence.

4. Lock Up When You Leave, Even Briefly

Heading out to walk the dog or water the garden? Lock doors and close windows when you’re not in the immediate area.

5. Use Tech to Track Your Tech

Install “find my device” software on your:

• Phones
• Tablets
• Laptops
• Smartwatches

Bonus: Use stickers or labels that show your items are GPS-tracked—it may discourage theft.

• Let a neighbour know you’ll be away and ask them to keep an eye out.
• Pause deliveries or have someone collect mail to avoid signs of absence.
• Unplug and store small electronics before you leave.

• Leaving a phone charging on a windowsill.
• Keeping a spare key under the doormat.
• Propping open a door or window “just for air” while away.
• Assuming daylight equals safety—most grab-and-go thefts happen during the day.

You don’t have to sweat it (literally). With a few small changes, you can enjoy summer breezes without risking your valuable tech. Open windows? Yes. Open opportunities for theft? Not this summer.