When you're away on vacation, ensuring the safety and security of your home is essential. Here are some tips to help keep your home safe while you're away.
Notify Trusted Individuals
Inform a trusted neighbour, friend, or family member about your vacation plans. Provide them with your contact information and ask them to keep an eye on your home. They can alert you or the authorities if they notice any suspicious activity.
Secure Doors and Windows
Double-check that all doors and windows are securely locked before you leave. Consider reinforcing entry points with deadbolts and installing window locks for added security. Don't forget to lock your garage door as well.
Use Timers for Lights
Set timers for indoor and outdoor lights to give the illusion that someone is home. Program them to turn on and off at different times throughout the day. This can deter potential burglars by giving the impression that your home is occupied.
Suspend Mail and Package Delivery
Contact the post office to hold your mail or ask a trusted neighbour to collect it for you. Piled-up mail or packages can signal that you're away. You can also consider suspending newspaper deliveries or any other regular services you receive.
Don't Broadcast Your Absence on Social Media
While it may be tempting to share your vacation plans on social media, it's best to avoid broadcasting your absence. Publicly announcing that you're away can make your home a target for burglars. Save the vacation posts for after you return.
Install a Home Security System
Consider investing in a home security system with surveillance cameras, motion sensors, and alarm systems. This provides an extra layer of protection and can alert you or a monitoring service if any suspicious activity is detected.
Close Blinds or Curtains
Close blinds or curtains to prevent anyone from peering into your home and seeing that it's unoccupied. However, consider leaving some curtains partially open in rooms where they are usually left that way. This maintains a sense of normalcy from the outside.
Secure Valuables
Store valuable items, important documents, and irreplaceable belongings in a secure and discreet location, such as a locked safe or a safety deposit box. This provides an additional layer of protection in case of a break-in.
Avoid Leaving Spare Keys
Avoid leaving spare keys outside your home, as experienced burglars may easily find them. Instead, give a spare key to a trusted neighbour or family member.
By following these tips, you can help ensure the safety of your home while you're away on vacation and enjoy your trip with peace of mind.
