In all the excitement of the upcoming holidays, it’s easy to forget to double-check that your home is safe and protected. In fact, according to the Department of Justice, there are 14% more burglaries nationwide in the summer than in the winter. Many people pack their bags and go on vacation.
Whether you’re enjoying the summer weather St. Paul, Minnesota Homeone Apartments in Marion, Iowaor a Homes for Rent in Blue Springs, MO, you don’t want to worry about what’s going on at home. To put your mind at ease, here are 15 home security tips to help you protect your home while on vacation.
Home Security Tip #1: Lock all doors and windows before leaving for vacation
Exceed twenty two% of burglars enter a home through an unlocked front door or first-floor window. The first line of defense in protecting your home from intruders is to ensure that your home’s doors and windows are properly closed and locked. Do this a few weeks before your trip so you have time to hire a locksmith if the locks need to be replaced or rekeyed. Then, as you prepare to head out on vacation, double-check that everything is safe.
Home Security Tip #2: Install a Home Security System
Another way to protect your home is to install a home security system. Not only reduces the chance of burglary 300%, but many top systems also offer remote access capabilities, allowing you to monitor your home from your phone. You can lock or unlock your door and instantly check on your pet via security cameras. In addition, your insurance company may provide up to 20% When you install a security system, you get a discount on your home insurance premiums, and those savings can help pay for your vacation.
Home Security Tip #3: Promote Your Home Security
Security systems are a burglar’s worst enemy and can even stop them from trying to break in. Be sure to post stickers or yard signs near the most obvious and accessible entry points to let potential intruders know your home is safe. Most burglars prefer to avoid trouble, and when they see the signs of a security system, they may decide it’s not worth the risk and move on.
Home Security Tip #4: Avoid garage break-ins while away
Many homeowners focus on securing the main house and forget about the garage. Fortunately, there are a few simple ways to prevent your garage from being broken into. Install motion detector lights in the corners of your garage, make sure service doors are locked, and keep valuables out of sight. If you leave your car in the driveway, remove your garage door remote to prevent thieves from breaking into your car and using the remote to gain access to your garage.
Home Safety Tip #5: Use a light timer when you’re out and about
An effective way to protect your home is to use a light timer. They are affordable, easy to install, and can deter criminals by making your home look occupied. Choose a timer with a “random on/off” option. When your lights turn on and off at different times during the day and night, it makes it harder for burglars to determine if someone is home.
Home Security Tip #6: Install Outdoor Security Lights
Thieves often look for dark, hidden areas when scanning neighborhoods for targets. arrive Improve your home security, consider installing motion sensor lights around your house. These lights will not only scare potential intruders, but also illuminate the area, making them more visible.
Home Security Tip #7: Remove “hidden” keys while on vacation to keep your home safe
more than one one third of thieves Entering a house through the front door often uses a “hidden” key that belongs to the homeowner. If you have keys under your doormat or somewhere else in plain sight, it’s crucial to remove them. Another proactive step is to replace traditional front door locks with keyless lock systems, eliminating the worry of keys altogether.
Home Security Tip #8: Lock Valuables in a Safe
Consider investing in a safe to keep your valuables safe from intruders. Make sure the safe is waterproof and fireproof to provide protection during natural disasters. Additionally, for added security, hide the safe somewhere where thieves are unlikely to search.
Home Safety Tip #9: Organize Your Yard Before Vacation
Keep all your outdoor equipment (grills, bikes, and tools) in a secure shed or garage to be ready for your trip and protect your home. Make sure the lawn is mowed and shrubs or trees are trimmed so thieves can’t hide themselves when trying to break into your home. If you have a gate leading to your yard, make sure it is closed and locked. Scan your property for any items a burglar might use to break into your home, such as bricks or hammers, and bring them in or remove them from your property.
Home Safety Tip #10: Schedule Lawn Care
If you will be away for an extended period of time, consider scheduling lawn maintenance to keep your property cared for. An overgrown lawn can indicate to others that the house is empty. If you don’t already have a lawn service, contact a local lawn care or landscaping company to clean up your front yard once or twice while you’re gone.
Home Safety Tip #11: Tell Your Neighbors You’re Going Out of Town
Assuming you trust your neighbours, it would be wise to let them know your holiday plans and leave a contact number. Inform them of anyone who may come to your home during your absence, such as a house sitter or dog walker. For extra protection, ask your neighborhood watch to keep an eye out for any unusual activity near your home.
Home Security Tip #12: Protect Your Home with a Nanny
Hire a nanny to take care of your home while you’re away. This can simplify home security, especially if you have pets. Ask a trusted friend to help with house-sitting and caring for your pets. They can also handle tasks such as collecting mail, carrying flyers, and emptying trash and recycling bins to help maintain the appearance that someone is home.
Home Safety Tip #13: Pause Mail Delivery
A sure sign that you’re out of town is a full mailbox or a pile of mail on your front porch. To prevent this from happening, please consider pausing your mail and package deliveries until you return. For trips lasting more than 30 days, ask a trusted family member or friend to pick up your mail. If you plan on extending your vacation, you may even want to arrange for your mail to be forwarded to your vacation destination.
Home Safety Tip #14: Take Safety Precautions for Utilities
Protecting your home from break-ins is crucial, but it’s also important to prevent utility issues like electrical problems or water damage. Before leaving, unplug appliances, turn off water valves to sinks, dishwashers and washing machines, and make sure smoke detectors are functioning properly. Taking these precautions can reduce the risk of unexpected hazards like fires or leaks while you’re out and about.
Family Safety Tip #15: Be careful what you post on social media
Please be careful when posting on social media. While you may be enjoying a great vacation and taking stunning photos, it’s wise not to share them until you’re safely home. Broadcasting your absence on social platforms will inform others that your house is unoccupied and may draw unwanted attention.
Protecting your home during the summer holidays: final thoughts
Securing your home while you’re away is all about taking proactive steps to deter burglars and prevent potential dangers. From securing doors and windows to installing a home security system and using light timers, each step adds layers of protection. Making sure your property looks lived in, whether through lawn maintenance or asking neighbors to collect mail, can further enhance security. By implementing these tips and staying vigilant, you can enjoy your vacation with peace of mind knowing you’ve done everything possible to protect your home and property.
