Going on vacation is an exciting time to relax and unwind, but it’s important to remember the safety and security of your home while you’re away. Burglars often target homes that appear to be vacant, so it’s essential to take the necessary precautions to ensure your home is protected. Here are some tips on how to secure your home while you’re away on vacation.
Secure Your Doors and Windows
One of the most important things you can do to secure your home is to make sure all doors and windows are locked. Before you leave for your vacation, double-check that every door and window is securely locked. If you have sliding glass doors, use a dowel or a security bar to prevent them from being easily opened. Additionally, make sure that all locks are working correctly and fix any that are not.
Another way to secure your doors is to install deadbolts. Deadbolts are much harder to break than standard locks and will add an extra layer of security to your home. If you have a front door with a window, consider installing a door with a solid core to make it more difficult to break in.
Install a Home Security System
Investing in a home security system is one of the best ways to protect your home while you’re away. A security system will not only deter burglars but will also alert you and the authorities if there is a break-in. There are a variety of security systems to choose from, ranging from basic systems that only include door and window sensors to more advanced systems that include video monitoring and remote access.
When choosing a security system, consider what features are most important to you and your budget. Some security systems can be controlled through your smartphone, allowing you to check on your home from anywhere in the world. Remember to test your security system before you leave to ensure it is working correctly.
Use Smart Home Technology to Monitor Your Home
Smart home technology has made it easier than ever to monitor your home while you’re away. You can install smart cameras that allow you to check on your home in real-time from your smartphone. Some cameras even come with motion sensors that will alert you if there is any movement in your home.
Smart home technology also allows you to control your home’s lighting and appliances remotely. Setting your lights on a timer will give the impression that someone is home, even if you’re not. Similarly, setting your television or radio to turn on and off can also create the illusion that someone is at home.
Keep Up Appearances: Make it Look Like You’re Home
Burglars often target homes that appear to be vacant, so it’s important to make it look like someone is still at home while you’re away. You can do this by asking a trusted neighbor or friend to collect your mail and newspapers while you’re away. A pile of mail and newspapers outside your home is a clear sign that nobody is home.
Another way to make it look like you’re home is to set your lights on a timer. Turning lights on and off at different times of the day will give the impression that someone is moving around the house. Lastly, consider parking a car in your driveway, even if it’s just for a day or two. This will make it look like someone is home and deter burglars.
Don’t Make it Public: Be Careful With Your Social Media Posts
Sharing your travel plans on social media is a common mistake that many people make. Posting pictures or statuses about your vacation can alert burglars that your home is vacant. It’s important to be cautious about what you post on social media and who can see it.
Avoid sharing your travel plans and wait until you’re back home to post pictures of your vacation. You can also adjust your privacy settings to ensure that only your friends and family can see your posts. Additionally, consider turning off location tracking on your smartphone, which can also give away your location.
Secure Your Home While on Vacation
Taking the necessary precautions to secure your home while you’re away on vacation can give you peace of mind and protect your home from burglary. Remember to secure your doors and windows, install a home security system, use smart home technology to monitor your home, make it look like you’re home, and be careful with your social media posts. By following these tips, you can enjoy your vacation and know that your home is safe and secure.