Warrnambool police Acting Sergeant Lana Roberts said residents could submit an ‘absence from residence’ form to police prior to setting off on holiday. 

“This lets us know that you’re away, and how long for, so that we can keep an eye on the place during patrol, ensure nothing is broken into or that anyone is hanging around when they shouldn’t be,” she said. 

“Residents can just come into the station and fill out the form.” 

Detective Senior Constable Wayne Ryan, of the Warrnambool police crime investigation unit, said residents need to lock up their homes and be wary of advertising their absence on social media. 

“Be aware of your security settings and be cautious of what you post as other people can share it, meaning it is hard to contain your movements if you don’t want it to wildly known that your house is vacant,” he said. 

“It’s also important you don’t make your vacant house clearly identifiable. Let your relatives and neighbours know so that they can attend the house every other day, put the blinds up and down, turn a light on and ensure that the mail is collected. And obviously lock your doors and windows securely.” 

Acting Sergeant Roberts urged locals to also stay safe on the roads. 

"For those travelling long distances, its important to take regular breaks, avoid fatigue, make sure that you're not tired before you head off and stick to the speed limits and road conditions,” she said.

"If there are two or more people that can drive, make sure you alternate who is behind the wheel." 

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