Are you deep into vacation planning mode as you anxiously count down the days until your departure? There’s no doubt that there is lots on your mind as you work your way through your “to do” list and start packing, but one thing you don’t want to forget about is home security while you’re gone. Whether you’re planning a short weekend getaway or an extended holiday that spans a few weeks or even months, an empty home is like a calling card for potential thieves.
So, before you head out on holidays, here are some tips you can use to boost the level of security on your home and ensure that there are no emergencies while you’re gone.
Invest in a Home Security System
The very best tip to give is to invest in a home security system. Remember that this isn’t just meant for when you’re on holidays but any time you aren’t home. That could mean when you are at work in the day, out running errands, or just walking around the block.
Before you set up one of the diy home security systems, you may want to look at these reviews from Porch, who provide advice on the best home security systems by providing an in-depth look at the plans offered, the features, the customer service, response time, cost, and more. This will help you to pick the best option for your needs.
No matter which security system you choose, make sure you ask for door and window stickers and even lawn/garden signs that advertise you have a home alarm system.
Make Sure You Aren’t Giving Intruders an Easy Way In
You will also want to do a visual inspection of the exterior of the house, making sure you don’t give would-be intruders an easy way to conceal themselves and get in your home. This means keeping the exterior well-lit with something like motion-detector lights, not letting bushes and trees get too big to provide potential hiding places, and ensuring all doors and windows have properly working locks on them.
Leave a Spare Key with a Family Member or Close Friend
It’s also a good idea to leave your travel details/itinerary along with a spare key with a family member or close friend. If they can stop by every couple of days or even once a week while you’re gone just to check up on things, you can have peace of mind. They will also be able to bring your mail and newspapers inside so your house doesn’t look empty.
Set Interior Lights on Timers
You also want to make the house appear to be occupied, so setting various interior lights on timers is a great idea. If possible set the lights to come on at different times each day so a pattern isn’t established. This is especially important if you plan on being away for a longer period of time.
Today you can purchase smart lights that can be set and controlled remotely using an app. This is a great way to be in control even if you aren’t home.
Speak to the Post Office About Holding the Mail
This tip is specifically for those on a long-stay holiday who will be away a month or more. In these cases, it’s best to speak to your post office and set a hold on your mail. This means it won’t build up at your door, and then you can collect it all from the post office when you return home.
Don’t Broadcast Your Plans on Social Media
If you are on social media and your accounts aren’t set to private, you risk anyone seeing your content. Broadcasting that you are away and providing details of when you will be home can be seen by the wrong people. It’s best to skip the posts on social media, and instead post all your photos and memories online once you get home.
Don’t Leave the Garage Door Hooked Up
For those with an automatic garage door, it’s best to disconnect it while you’re gone. It’s become quite easy for intruders to hack the technology and get in, but you take away their control if you disconnect the opener.
Enjoy Your Holiday Knowing Your Home is Safe
These are just a few of the ways you can boost the safety and security of your home while you’re away, giving you peace of mind during your travels.
