What do you do about flat security when going away for two weeks+?

[Hespera]

What do you do to keep your flat/hse secure?

Our neighbours use their flat as a pied a terre so we can't ask them to keep an eye and downstairs is a bunch of Aussies (about 12 of them, seemingly!) so can't really ask them either.

We put a radio (on R4 natch) on a timer but we haven't got round to getting one of those timer switches for lights on.
Do you think they're worth it?
Also curtains open or closed?
TIA

why can't you ask the aussies?

Because each time I've tried to introduce myself before (I work from home, and was going to offer to take in parcels etc) the person has said "oh I don't live here, I'm just staying here."
They left the keys in the door once and I knocked to let them know, I said (cheery smile) Hi, you left these in. I'm Hespera, I live upst--" door shut in face with a cursory "oh ta" so I don't really feel very warm towards them.

Leave curtains open.
A couple of lights on timer.
Radio too.
Cancel deliveries of newspapers and milk.
Lots more but can't think of them at the mo.

hmm, fair enough. so yes to timers on lights and cancel papers etc. good luck!