Play it safe and there will be no reason to worry about your home while you're away. (Comstock Complete)

If you're nervous about leaving your home unattended while on vacation, you're not alone.

A new survey by Swinton Insurance in England shows 21% of homeowners worry about their homes when they're away on holiday. But the company says proper insurance will help you recover items that might be stolen.

The company also suggests asking a friend to stop by to pick up the mail, use a timer for lights so it doesn't look like the house is empty, lock all windows, let neighbours know you're heading out on vacation, set a house alarm and don't advertise the fact you're going to be away by posting holiday plans on networking websites like Twitter or Facebook.