Traveling offers great excitement, but leaving your home unattended can bring security worries. Whether you’re planning a weekend away or a long vacation, it’s crucial to take steps to safeguard your property. Here are some practical tips to help ensure your home stays secure while you’re on your trip.
Strengthen Your Home’s Defense with a Security System
Home security systems are the first line of defense against potential threats. Modern systems offer features like motion sensors, cameras, and remote monitoring, allowing you to check on your home from your smartphone, even while you’re away.
Pro Tip:
Choose a system with visible outdoor cameras or signage to deter burglars from targeting your home.
Keep Your Absence Discreet to Protect Your Home
It’s tempting to post about your upcoming trip on social media, but doing so can alert potential burglars that your home will be empty. Refrain from sharing departure dates, destinations, or return times until you’re back home.
Pro Tip:
Ask a trusted friend or neighbor to collect your mail and newspapers while you’re away to prevent your home from looking vacant.
Strengthen Your Home’s Defense by Upgrading Your Locks
Don’t leave your home vulnerable with weak locks. Make sure all entry points, including doors and windows, have strong, secure locks. Deadbolts and smart locks are excellent choices for maximum protection.
Pro Tip:
Install a rod or bar in sliding glass doors to prevent them from being easily forced open.
Install Smart Lighting for Better Home Security
Smart lighting systems can make your home look occupied, deterring burglars. Set lights on timers to turn on and off at various intervals, simulating the normal activities in your household.
Pro Tip:
Use voice-activated systems with your smart lights to make your home appear even more active, even if you’re thousands of miles away.
Ask Your Neighbors to Help Monitor Your Home
Having a good relationship with your neighbors can strengthen your home’s security when you’re away. Inform a trusted neighbor about your trip and ask them to watch your property.
Pro Tip:
Share a spare key and your contact info with your neighbor for emergencies.
Safeguard Your Valuables at Home
Store valuable items like jewelry, cash, and important documents in a safe to keep them secure. If you don’t own a home safe, renting a safety deposit box at your bank is a great option. Never leave valuables in clear view through windows.
Pro Tip:
Keep your electronic devices hidden, as these are common targets for burglars.
Set Up Outdoor Cameras for More Security
Install outdoor cameras to prevent break-ins and provide evidence if needed. Position them at key locations like your front door, back door, and garage.
Pro Tip:
Select cameras that have night vision and motion detection for the best security.
Unplug Your Electronics to Protect Your Home
Unplugging electronics helps prevent fire hazards and protects devices from power surges. Be sure to unplug items like televisions, computers, and kitchen appliances.
Pro Tip:
For devices that need constant power, like your security system, use a surge protector for added protection.
Add a Video Doorbell for Added Security
Video doorbells are growing in popularity due to their ability to enhance security and allow you to interact with visitors from anywhere.
Pro Tip:
Select a video doorbell with cloud storage to store recordings for future reference.
A Well-Kept Yard Helps Protect Your Home
A messy yard can indicate no one is home. Mow the lawn, trim any overgrown bushes, and clear debris before you leave.
Pro Tip:
Hire a landscaper if you’re going to be away for an extended period to maintain your yard’s upkeep.
Avoid Storing Spare Keys Outside Your Home
Hiding spare keys outside under a mat or in a flowerpot is an easy target for burglars. Leave a spare key with a trusted friend or neighbor instead.
Pro Tip:
Consider using a lockbox for securely storing your spare key.
Enhance Home Security with Alarm Signs
You don’t need a full security system to protect your home—alarm signs or stickers on doors and windows can discourage intruders. Most burglars avoid homes with visible security warnings.
Pro Tip:
Position the signs in noticeable areas like your front yard and by entry points for maximum effect.
Temporarily Pause Deliveries to Prevent Suspicious Activity
Packages and newspapers piling up outside your home can indicate no one is there. Pause your deliveries or arrange for a friend to pick them up for you.
Pro Tip:
Use vacation hold services from the post office to manage your mail while you’re away.
Make Your Home Safer with Automation
Home automation systems allow you to manage lighting, temperature, and security cameras from anywhere, giving you full control over your home’s security.
Pro Tip:
Integrate home automation with your security system for more convenient management.
Let the Police Know If You’re Going Away for Extra Safety
Many local police departments offer vacation watch services where officers will periodically check your property while you’re away.
Pro Tip:
Share your contact information and details of anyone allowed on your property with the police for additional security.
Improve Home Security with Motion-Activated Lighting
Dark areas around your property can give burglars cover. Motion-activated lights illuminate these spots whenever there’s movement, acting as a deterrent.
Pro Tip:
Place motion-activated lights near entry points and pathways for better protection.
Make Sure Everything is Secure Before Leaving
Before you leave, make sure all windows and doors are locked, alarms are activated, and lights are correctly programmed with a quick walk-through.
Pro Tip:
Use a checklist to ensure nothing is overlooked as you prepare to leave.
By applying these tips, you can travel with ease, knowing your home is secure. Proper preparation and attention to detail are essential for home security, so take the right steps to ensure peace of mind during your trip!