WITH summer fast approaching, many of us think about going away.

If you are planning to be away from your home, whether for a day, weekend or for longer, you want to be sure that your home is as safe as possible.

Apart from the usual precautions of locking doors, cancelling the milk, and getting a neighbour to come in and check the house while you are away, there are other security precautions you could consider.

As well as giving better security and piece of mind, installing secure and approved door and window locks and approved alarm systems and joining your local Neighbourhood Watch scheme could lower your home insurance premiums.

If you are considering improving your home security you need to decide whether to do it yourself or get an experienced company in to do the work. An experienced DIY person may be able to tackle the installation of window locks or door locks.

However, when it comes to installing an alarm system most of us will need to employ someone to do it. It is important to choose the right system, and the best advice is to choose a NACOSS accredited business.

To deter burglars, make sure the alarm system is visible, with the siren boxes visible on both the front and back of the house. You can also deter burglars with other easy-to-do measures, such as painting drainpipes with anti-climb paint and planting thorny bushes under vulnerable walls and windows.

Another simple yet effective measure is to have security lights activated by movement over driveways, garden or garage doors. Timers can be used to turn on lights and radios while you are away.

City of York Council's Trading Standards consumer advice service can provide further advice and information about what to do if you are considering installing security measures.

Whatever you do decide, do not be taken in by any business which cold calls you trying to sell security systems. Never buy off the doorstep or as the result of an unsolicited telephone call. Check out the business first and do not sign up to anything without taking further advice.

For information on this or any other consumer matter contact York Trading Standards, at 9 St Leonard's Place, York, or telephone 01904 551562. The fax number is 01904 551590 or email tradingstandards@york.gov.uk. You can also visit the website at www.york.gov.uk/business/tradingstandards

Updated: 09:34 Thursday, May 15, 2003