12 Things You Can Do to Keep Your Home Safe While Vacationing

Planning a vacation is always exciting, but it's equally important to ensure your home remains safe while you’re away. By taking a few precautionary steps, you can travel with peace of mind knowing your home is secure. Here are 12 things you can do to keep your home safe while vacationing.

1. Install a Home Security System

A home security system (like one from Advanced Alarm) is one of the best ways to protect your home. Modern systems offer a variety of features, including motion sensors, surveillance cameras, and alarm notifications that can alert you and the authorities if something goes wrong.

Benefits of a Home Security System

• 24/7 Monitoring: Many systems offer round-the-clock monitoring services.

• Remote Access: Control and monitor your home security from your smartphone.

• Deterrent to Burglars: Visible cameras and alarms can deter potential intruders.

2. Use Smart Lighting

Smart lighting can make it appear as though someone is home even when you're away. You can set timers or use apps to control your lights remotely. Some systems even allow you to set up random lighting schedules to mimic natural activity.

Advantages of Smart Lighting

• Energy Efficient: Only use lights when needed.

• Remote Control: Manage your lights from anywhere.

• Added Security: Deter criminals by making your home look occupied.

3. Secure Doors and Windows

Ensure all doors and windows are locked before you leave. Invest in high-quality locks and consider adding deadbolts for extra security. Don't forget about basement and garage doors, which are often overlooked.

Tips for Securing Doors and Windows

• Install Deadbolts: Provide an extra layer of security.

• Use Window Locks: Secure windows with locks or bars.

• Check Sliding Doors: Use a rod or bar to prevent sliding doors from being forced open.

4. Inform a Trusted Neighbor

Let a trusted neighbor know you'll be away and ask them to keep an eye on your property. Provide them with your contact information and possibly a spare key in case of emergencies.

Benefits of Informing a Neighbor

• Immediate Assistance: Neighbors can quickly notify you of any issues.

• Added Surveillance: Extra set of eyes on your property.

• Community Support: Builds a sense of community and mutual aid.

5. Hold Your Mail

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A full mailbox is a clear sign that no one is home. Contact your local post office to hold your mail while you're away. You can also pause newspaper deliveries to prevent them from piling up on your doorstep.

How to Hold Your Mail

• Visit Post Office: Fill out a hold mail request form.

• Online Request: Use the postal service’s website to submit a hold mail request.

• Ask a Neighbor: Have a neighbor collect your mail and newspapers.

6. Avoid Posting on Social Media

As tempting as it may be to share your vacation plans on social media, it's best to wait until you return. Posting about your absence can alert potential burglars that your home is empty.

Social Media Safety Tips

• Private Settings: Adjust privacy settings to limit who can see your posts.

• Delay Posting: Share vacation photos and updates after you return.

• Be Vague: Avoid sharing specific details about your travel plans.

7. Use Home Automation

Home automation systems can control various aspects of your home, such as lighting, heating, and security systems. These systems allow you to create the illusion of occupancy even when you’re far away.

Features of Home Automation

• Remote Access: Control devices from your smartphone.

• Scheduling: Set up routines to turn lights and appliances on and off.

• Integration: Connect multiple devices for seamless operation.

8. Remove Spare Keys

If you have hidden spare keys outside your home, remove them before you leave. Experienced burglars know common hiding spots and can easily find them.

Alternatives to Spare Keys

• Keyless Entry: Install a keyless entry system.

• Smart Locks: Use smart locks that can be controlled remotely.

• Neighbor: Leave a spare key with a trusted neighbor.

9. Install Outdoor Lighting

Well-lit exteriors can deter intruders. Install motion-sensor lights around your property to illuminate dark areas. This can make it harder for burglars to approach undetected.

Tips for Outdoor Lighting

• Motion Sensors: Lights turn on when motion is detected.

• Solar Lights: Use solar-powered lights for energy efficiency.

• Strategic Placement: Place lights near entry points and dark corners.

10. Keep Valuables Out of Sight

Ensure that valuables are not visible from windows. Use curtains or blinds to keep prying eyes away. Store expensive items in a safe or hidden place.

How to Hide Valuables

• Use a Safe: Store valuables in a fireproof safe.

• Curtains and Blinds: Close them to prevent visibility.

• Hide Items: Place valuable items in inconspicuous places.

11. Disconnect Electronics

Unplug non-essential electronics to prevent potential fire hazards and save on energy costs. This also protects your devices from power surges.

Benefits of Disconnecting Electronics

• Fire Prevention: Reduce the risk of electrical fires.

• Energy Savings: Lower your electricity bill.

• Surge Protection: Protect devices from power surges.

12. Check Your Insurance

Review your home insurance policy before you leave. Ensure you have adequate coverage for theft and damage. Knowing you're covered can provide additional peace of mind.

What to Check in Your Insurance Policy

• Coverage Limits: Ensure your policy covers the full value of your home and belongings.

• Theft Protection: Verify that theft is covered.

• Emergency Contact: Know who to contact in case of an emergency.

Conclusion

The last thing you want to be worried about is home security on vacation. Taking these precautions can help increase your home safety while you enjoy your time away. From installing a home security system to informing a trusted neighbor, each step adds an extra layer of protection. By being proactive, you can travel worry-free and return to a secure home. Need help determining which home security system is right for you? Give Advanced Alarm a call!