Summer security checklist : how to protect your home during the summer holidays
With the summer holidays in full swing, many homes across Europe are left empty, making them prime targets for intruders. Vacant properties, open windows for ventilation, and valuable assets left outside, like bikes, health and fitness equipment, outdoor furniture or BBQ grills, are often at risk, since basic alarm systems only activate after a break-in, offering little real protection.
The average burglary in Europe costs between €3,000 and €4,000, not including emotional stress or recovery time. The good news? The right indoor and outdoor detection technologies can help detect and deter break-ins before they happen. This guide covers the top risks and expert tips for securing residential properties during summer holidays, along with advanced professional-grade outdoor and indoor intrusion detection solutions from OPTEX - suited for both houses and flats - to keep homes safe.
Why summer is high-risk for home intrusion
Recent data across Europe shows summer is the most dangerous time for home break-ins. In Germany, burglary rates rise by as much as 25% during July and August, according to Weber Protect. In Finland, police confirm that July and August are consistently the highest-risk months for residential break-ins, as reported by the Helsinki Times. Spain also experiences a surge, with up to 2,500 home burglaries per day during the summer - particularly in cities with populations over 50,000—according to Euro Weekly News .
Why reliable detection technology matters
For security professionals, choosing the right detection technology isn’t just about coverage—it’s about accuracy, reliability, and a timely response. Whether installing in a compact city flat or a detached home with outdoor space, selecting well-calibrated, professional-grade sensors can make the difference between a secured property and a costly break-in.
False alarms are more than just a nuisance. They strain monitoring systems, waste resources, and can lead to user fatigue, causing people to ignore real alerts when they matter most. Matters are made worse with missed alarms where an intrusion goes undetected until it’s too late. The financial impact of a single burglary can exceed €3,000, not to mention the added emotional distress.
That’s why it’s essential to rely on proven detection systems , which are designed to deliver accurate results even in challenging environments, such as fluctuating temperatures, intense sunlight, or areas with pets and foliage. By eliminating noise and focusing on genuine threats, reliable sensors not only protect properties but also build trust between system integrators, installers, and their clients.
Smart outdoor detection for proactive protection
OPTEX outdoor sensors are designed to detect intrusions before they happen - providing homeowners with an early warning and giving installers a competitive edge. These detectors are built to reduce false alarms caused by heat, pets, and environmental factors, making them ideal for year-round use. All OPTEX outdoor series are available both wired and wireless and are fully compatible with leading intruder alarms, smart systems, and CCTV platforms, with options for both wired and wireless configurations:
Reliable indoor detection
In urban settings where outdoor protection is more difficult, OPTEX offers precise and discreet indoor sensors for apartments and flats:
FlipX Series
Perfect for a wide range of indoor spaces, including wide indoor areas, corridors or transitional spaces, FlipX sensors include a rotatable lens, enabling both wide-angle and narrow detection in a single sensor, and can be used as part of a layered security approach. Grade 2 and Grade 3 models are available to suit a different range of security systems. One of the unique features in the FlipX range is the innovative pyro sensor with human catch element for creating human-sized detection areas and superior pet tolerance.
FX-360
Ceiling-mounted detectors ideal for entrance halls or open-plan spaces. The sensors provide comprehensive coverage with minimal visual impact. A key feature includes the hard spherical lens, designed for precision, providing reliable detection throughout its 360-degree area.
AP Series
Compact, cost-effective PIR sensors for smaller flats and residential spaces. Designed for quick installation and consistent reliability.
These solutions deliver fast deployment, high accuracy, and integration with all leading alarm or smart home systems, ideal for installers working in urban environments.
Five Home Security Tips for Summer Travel
- Use smart timers for lights and blinds to simulate presence.
- Lock every entry point, including upstairs windows and garden gates.
- Conceal valuables and don’t post travel plans online. Secure sheds, garages, and outdoor equipment.
- Install outdoor motion detectors to create a buffer around your home.
- Select reliable indoor and outdoor detection systems that won’t trigger false alarms and ‘steal’ your summer.
Take Action: Stay Ahead of Break-Ins
Summer is the peak season for residential intrusion - now’s the time to help your clients secure their properties. OPTEX offers scalable, easy-to-integrate indoor and outdoor detection solutions that give professionals like you a competitive edge. Whether upgrading existing systems or planning new installations, our reliable sensor technology ensures early warning, fewer false alarms, and peace of mind for your customers.
Want to see what is possible?
Speak to an OPTEX expert to explore the best detection solutions for your next residential project. Whether you're working on upgrades or new installations, our team can help you find the right fit for your clients' needs.
