Vacations are meant to be relaxing, seeing new sights, and making memories that will last a lifetime. But while you’re basking in the sun or trekking through mountains, your house can become a sitting duck for thieves. Nobody wishes to return home to a shattered door or a stolen computer, so keeping your house safe and secure while on vacation is imperative. To assist in providing you with peace of mind, here are seven easy home safety tips while on vacation to secure your home while you are away.
1. Lock All Doors and Windows
It may be elementary, but one of the best things you can do to stop burglars from breaking in is to make sure each door and window is locked when you go out. Inspect all entry points, including the basement, garage, and even the hard-to-reach windows. If you’ve got sliding doors or windows, you can fit a security bar or lock pin as an extra measure.
Tip: Make it a habit to double-check all locks before you leave, even if you’re just stepping out for the day. Adding an extra layer of security can give you confidence while on vacation.
2. Install a Smart Security System
One of the most effective means of securing your home while away is by getting an intelligent security system. Most contemporary systems are equipped with cameras, motion sensors, and alarms that can trigger notifications on your phone in the event of strange activity. Most of these systems are cost-effective, simple to install, and can be remotely controlled, which enables you to keep an eye on your home from anywhere in the world.
Tip: Think about systems that connect to your smartphone so you can turn lights, cameras, and alarms on and off from your phone. Some even enable you to make it look like you are home by having lights turn on and off at random intervals.
3. Use Timers for Lights
An unoccupied house can quickly appear to be an invitation to burglars, mainly if it’s perpetually dark. A quick fix is to fit timers on your lights. You can program them to come on and off at various times of the day, making it seem like you’re in. This makes it far less likely that anyone will try to break into your property.
Tip: If you have exterior lights on your home, ensure that they are also on-timers. Exterior lights can be handy in discouraging burglars who like to work under the cover of night.
4. Ask a Neighbor or Friend for Help
It’s always best to have someone you trust to watch your place while you’re gone. It could be a neighbor, a friend, or a family member, but having someone stop by now and then can scare off criminals from trying anything nefarious. They can pick up mail, water plants, or keep an eye on your house.
Tip: If you’re traveling for an extended period, ask them to park in your driveway now and then or walk around your property. An active, occupied home is less likely to attract attention.
5. Be Cautious with Social Media
These days, it’s irresistible to post those travel pictures and stories on Facebook as soon as you arrive in your holiday spot. But posting it could make a sign that tells potential break-in artists your home is vacant. To keep that from happening, do not put anything up on Facebook until you are safely at home.
Tip: Make your social media accounts private so that your friends and family are the only ones who can view your posts. If you really need to post updates, wait until you’re safely home before posting your holiday photos.
6. Secure Your Valuables
Before you leave, take time to lock up any valuable things such as jewelry, electronics, or essential documents. The ideal place to stash them is in a safe, especially if you will be away for a long. If you do not have a safe, use a secret compartment, a secure cabinet, or a trusted friend to keep your valuables while you are away.
Tip: If you have big items like electronics or art, think about putting them out of view or into a closet. A thief is less likely to take something if they are unable to see it readily.
7. Check Your Insurance Coverage
Although we hope you never have to encounter a break-in or destruction to your property, it’s a good idea to check that your insurance covers you in the event of something occurring while you’re away. Check your home insurance policy to ensure it protects against vandalism or theft, particularly if you own high-value items.
Tip: If you don’t currently have renters or homeowners insurance, now is the time to research obtaining it. A few dollars a month can protect you from losing significant amounts of money if your house is broken into.
Conclusion
Your house is among your most significant assets, and it’s paramount that you ensure it’s being protected while you’re on vacation enjoying your well-deserved relaxation. By securing your home the simple way by locking up, investing in an intelligent security system, requesting help from a neighbor, and several other ways mentioned below, you can be able to guarantee your property remains safe when you are away. Preparing a bit, you can sit back and relax on your vacation without worrying about what’s going on at home.
