Traveling can be a thrilling experience, but leaving your home behind may raise concerns about its security. Whether it’s a weekend escape or a long vacation, taking the right precautions to protect your home is vital. Here are some practical tips to ensure your property remains safe while you’re away.
Invest in a Home Security System for Ultimate Protection
Home security system serves as your first defense against intruders. With advanced features like motion sensors, surveillance cameras, and remote monitoring, modern systems allow you to keep tabs on your home from anywhere via smartphone.
Pro Tip:
Select a system that includes visible cameras or security signs outside, as this is a proven deterrent for would-be burglars.
Don’t Publicly Share Your Travel Plans for Safety
While it’s tempting to announce your travel plans on social media, doing so can leave your home vulnerable. Avoid posting departure dates and destinations until after you’ve returned.
Pro Tip:
Have a trusted friend or neighbor collect your mail and newspapers to prevent your home from looking vacant during your absence.
Upgrade Your Locks for Better Home Security
Weak locks are an easy target for burglars. Make sure all doors and windows have secure locks, such as deadbolts and smart locks, to enhance your home’s safety.
Pro Tip:
Consider reinforcing sliding glass doors with a rod or bar to stop them from being pried open.
Make Your Home Safer with Smart Lights
Using smart lighting can make your home appear occupied, reducing its appeal to intruders. Set timers for your lights to turn on and off in various rooms, mimicking typical daily routines.
Pro Tip:
Pair smart lighting with voice-activated systems for an added layer of security, making your home seem lived in, no matter where you are.
Ask Your Neighbors to Help Monitor Your Home
A good relationship with your neighbors can improve your home’s security when you’re traveling. Tell a trusted neighbor about your plans and ask them to look out for your home.
Pro Tip:
Give your neighbor a spare key and your emergency contact details.
Protect Your Valuables from Theft
To protect your valuable items, such as jewelry, cash, and documents, always keep them in a safe. If you don’t have one, consider renting a safety deposit box at your bank. Avoid displaying valuables through windows, as it may attract burglars.
Pro Tip:
Place electronics in inconspicuous areas, as they are often targeted by thieves.
Use Outdoor Security Cameras for Extra Protection
Outdoor cameras serve as both a deterrent to burglars and a tool for capturing evidence if an incident occurs. Place them at important entry points like doors and the garage.
Pro Tip:
Look for cameras with night vision and motion detection features for better protection.
Turn Off and Unplug Electronics for Added Security
Unplugging electronics lowers the risk of electrical fires and shields your devices from power surges. This includes electronics such as televisions, computers, and kitchen appliances.
Pro Tip:
For devices that must remain plugged in, like your security system, always use a surge protector.
Keep Your Home Safe with a Video Doorbell
Video doorbells are an excellent tool for security, allowing you to monitor and interact with visitors at your door from anywhere. They’re effective in deterring crime as well.
Pro Tip:
Opt for a video doorbell with cloud storage to save and access video recordings when needed.
Keep Your Yard Clean to Enhance Home Safety
An unkempt yard can suggest that your home is vacant. Mow the lawn, trim the bushes, and remove any debris before you leave.
Pro Tip:
Consider hiring a landscaper if you’re going to be away for an extended period to maintain your yard’s appearance.
Keep Spare Keys Inside for Better Security
Hiding spare keys under a doormat or in a flowerpot is an outdated method burglars know well. Instead, leave a spare key with someone you trust.
Pro Tip:
Consider investing in a lockbox for a secure way to store spare keys.
Set Up Alarm Signs to Warn Potential Intruders
Alarm signs or stickers on windows and doors can help protect your home, even if you don’t have a security system. Burglars are less likely to target homes with visible security markers.
Pro Tip:
Place alarm signs where they are most visible, such as your front yard and entry points.
Suspend Deliveries to Keep Your Home Safe
A stack of packages or newspapers outside your door is an obvious sign that you’re not home. Pause mail and package deliveries or have a friend collect them for you.
Pro Tip:
Use vacation hold services from your post office to temporarily manage your mail while you’re on vacation.
Improve Home Safety with Automation
Home automation systems allow you to remotely manage things like lighting, temperature, and security cameras, giving you full control over your home’s security from afar.
Pro Tip:
Combine home automation with your security system for a more streamlined and efficient experience.
Inform Your Local Police for Added Security
Some police departments provide vacation watch services, where officers check on your home during your absence to ensure it stays safe.
Pro Tip:
Ensure you provide your contact details and the names of authorized individuals to the police.
Use Motion-Activated Lights to Deter Intruders
Dark areas around your home can be risky, giving burglars a place to hide. Motion-activated lights instantly light up when movement is detected, acting as a deterrent.
Pro Tip:
Place them near entry points and along walkways for extra security.
Always Double-Check Your Home Before You Leave
Before leaving, do a quick walk-through to make sure all windows and doors are locked, alarms are set, and lights are ready.
Pro Tip:
Keep a checklist to help you remember everything before you leave.
With these helpful tips, you can travel confidently, knowing your home is secure. Security is about being prepared and staying vigilant, so make sure you take the right steps to protect your home and enjoy a hassle-free trip!