Summer vacation is a time for relaxation, adventure, and escaping everyday routines. However, the joy of going on vacation can quickly be overshadowed by the worry of leaving your home unprotected. This blog post will share home safety tips to keep your home secure during the vacation season. After all, peace of mind is the best travel companion.
1. Don’t Advertise Your Absence
In the age of social media, it’s tempting to post every update of your vacation in real-time, but it can also be an open invitation to potential burglars. Our safety tip: avoid announcing your vacation plans on social media or in public spaces where strangers can overhear.
2. Invest in Timers for Lights
A dark house is an obvious sign that no one is home. Invest in timers for your indoor and outdoor lights and set them to mimic your regular daily activity. This can create an illusion of occupancy.
3. Secure Doors and Windows
Before you leave, ensure all doors and windows are locked securely. Don’t forget to check the garage door, as well as smaller windows in basements and attics. Consider investing in deadbolts for added security on external doors as our safety advice.
4. Hold Your Mail
A stuffed mailbox or a pile of newspapers at the doorstep signals that the house is unoccupied. Ask your postal service to hold your mail, or request a trusted neighbor to collect it for you.
5. Unplug Electronics
Unplug all nonessential electronics. Not only will this save energy, but it will also eliminate the risk of electrical fires.
6. Make Use of a Home Security System
If you have a home security system, ensure it is activated before you leave. This can deter burglars and can notify authorities in the event of a break-in. If you don’t have one, it might be a good time to consider investing in one.
7. Don’t Leave Spare Keys Outside
Burglars know all the potential hiding spots for spare keys. Instead of leaving a key under the mat or in a fake rock, give a spare key to a trusted neighbor or family member.
8. Keep Your Lawn Maintained
An overgrown lawn can hint that no one is home. If you’ll be away for an extended period, hire a lawn service or ask a neighbor to keep your yard maintained.
9. Secure Valuables
Don’t leave valuables in obvious places. Use a safe or a secure off-site location to store jewelry, important documents, and other valuable items while you’re away.
10. Ask a Friend or Neighbor to Check In
Having someone periodically check your home can dissuade potential burglars. This person can also help with tasks like watering plants, feeding pets, or taking out the trash.
Preparing your home for your absence can add a few more tasks to your pre-vacation checklist, but the peace of mind you’ll gain is well worth the effort. Implement these safety tips and you can enjoy your vacation knowing your home is secure. Safe travels!