Protecting your home while on vacation is just as important as protecting the items you bring with you. This must-read guide will help keep your home safe! To fully enjoy your trip, plan appropriate home security and maintenance with this checklist. Of course, it is impossible to cover all the bases as life is unpredictable, but at least you can leave town knowing you did all that you could.
Get a Home Monitoring System
Home security is absolutely essential and there are many options (varying in cost) to choose from, so make sure you opt for one that fits your home/ needs. Some home security systems allow you to view live video remotely from your phone, so you are able to see what’s happening in real-time. This small investment is well worth your peace of mind!
Leave a key with a friend or family member
While you can put a hold on newspapers and mail (which you should do), you can’t predict when random flyers or forgotten Amazon orders will be left at the front door. By having a trusted friend or family member stop by every day or two, you can avoid unexpected deliveries being left out. This trusted individual can also maintain your normal routines such as watering plants, bringing trash cans to the curb, etc. Don’t forget to compensate them with love and appreciation for their help!
Install an outdoor sensor light
It’s simple install for those of you who aren’t tech-savvy, and you can pick one up on Amazon for less than $20. Motion-sensor flood lights prove to be useful year-round for general home security whether you’re home or not, and often are equipped with technology to have them turn off and on at certain times of the day.
Disconnect your garage door
It’s no secret that technology can be easily hacked, especially by more experienced or motivated criminals. Garage door openers (depending on what brand they are) can sometimes be opened by universal remotes. Yep, you read that correctly. You must be proactive! Disengage your garage door opener and opt for a manual lock.
Advertise Your security
Having a security system will most definitely deter burglars, so advertise it! Post these stickers near your most obvious and accessible entry points like your front and back door, as well as side doors off your garage. You can even buy a pack of stickers online (Amazon has many options) if you haven’t been able to implement your security system before your next trip.
Use lights to create the illusion that someone’s home
Darkness is another trademark of an empty house — it also allows thieves to sneak in undetected. Nix that vulnerability by leaving a few lights on. Better yet, use motion detector lights to illuminate any intruders, or opt for smart lighting so you can set the lights to a timer and control them remotely.
Don’t broadcast your plans online
One of the most popular green lights for those savvy burglars are social media. Yes, you read that correctly. Avoid posting about your vacation on social media until after you return (make sure your kids avoid doing so as well). By sharing travel plans, you’re advertising that your house will be empty. You can never be completely sure who sees that information, especially if you have many followers or a public profile.
Adjust the thermostat
Adjust the thermostat to prevent the HVAC system from needlessly heating or cooling empty rooms. Programmable smart thermostats make this a lot easier, and you can remotely adjust them to comfortable temperatures for when you get back.