10 Simple Ways to Protect Your Home While You’re on Vacation

10 Simple Ways to Protect Your Home While You’re on Vacation

Imagine returning from vacation to find your home burglarized. It’s a scary thought, but there are easy steps you can take to prevent it. Here are ten straightforward tips to keep your house safe while you’re away:

1. Get a Home Security System: Install one with cameras, motion sensors, and alarms. Many can be controlled from your phone.
2. Upgrade to Smart Locks: These let you lock and unlock doors remotely and get alerts about activity.
3. Keep Up Your Home’s Look: Arrange for lawn care and mail pickup to avoid looking empty. Timed lights can make it seem like someone’s home.
4. Secure Windows and Doors: Make sure they’re locked, and consider adding extra locks or bars for more security.
5. Be Careful on Social Media: Don’t announce your vacation plans online. It could tip off burglars that your home is empty.
6. Ask Trusted Neighbors for Help: Let them know you’ll be away so they can keep an eye out and pick up any packages.
7. Use a Safe for Valuables: Keep jewelry, electronics, and important documents in a secure, bolted-down safe.
8. Don’t Hide Spare Keys: Instead of leaving keys outside, give a spare to a neighbor you trust or switch to keyless entry.
9. Pause Mail and Newspaper Delivery: Avoid piling up mail and newspapers, which can signal an empty home.
10. Keep an Eye on Your Home Remotely: Use security cameras that you can check from your phone to monitor any activity.

With these ten tips, you can greatly reduce the risk of your home being targeted while you’re away. Taking a few simple precautions can give you peace of mind and help you enjoy your vacation without worrying about your home’s safety.