The Ultimate Guide to Securing Your Home While on Vacation

Vacations are a time to relax and unwind, but leaving your home unattended can sometimes cause anxiety. The good news is that there are several steps you can take to ensure your home stays safe and secure while you’re away. Here’s a comprehensive guide to help you safeguard your home and enjoy your vacation with peace of mind.

1.) Install a Home Security System

A home security system is one of the most effective ways to protect your home. Modern systems come with a variety of features, including:

- Alarms: Loud alarms can deter intruders and alert neighbors.

- Surveillance Cameras: Cameras allow you to monitor your property remotely and record any suspicious activity.

- Motion Sensors: These sensors can detect movement inside and outside your home and trigger alarms or lights.

- Smart Locks: Control your door locks remotely and receive alerts if someone tries to tamper with them.

Ensure your security system is up-to-date and functioning properly before you leave.

2.) Smart Home Automation

Smart home devices can enhance your home’s security while you’re away. Consider the following:

- Smart Lights: Set your lights on a timer or use smart bulbs that you can control remotely to create the illusion that someone is home.

- Smart Plugs: Connect appliances to smart plugs and control them remotely. This can be useful for turning on radios or TVs at different times.

- Video Doorbells: These allow you to see and communicate with anyone who comes to your door.

3.) Secure Doors and Windows

Before leaving, double-check that all doors and windows are locked securely. Consider these additional measures:

- Reinforce Locks: Install deadbolts on doors and use window locks or bars for added security.

- Slide Bolts or Rods: Place slide bolts or rods in the tracks of sliding doors and windows to prevent them from being forced open.

- Install Security Film: Security film on windows makes it harder for them to be shattered.

4.) Hold Your Mail and Packages

A pile of mail or packages is a clear sign that no one is home. Arrange for the postal service to hold your mail, or ask a trusted neighbor to collect it for you. Similarly, pause any newspaper deliveries.

5.) Don’t Broadcast Your Absence

While it’s tempting to share vacation plans and photos on social media, it’s best to wait until you return. Broadcasting your absence can alert potential burglars that your home is empty.

6.) Enlist the Help of Neighbors

If you have a trusted neighbor, inform them of your travel plans. Ask them to keep an eye on your property and report any suspicious activity. Provide them with a way to contact you in case of an emergency.

7.) Maintain Your Property’s Appearance

An unkempt yard can signal that no one is home. Arrange for someone to mow your lawn or clear snow if you’ll be away for an extended period. If you have a pool, make sure it’s maintained as well.

8.) Use Light Timers

Set indoor and outdoor lights on timers to create the appearance that someone is home. Vary the times to avoid patterns that could be noticed by burglars.

9.) Disconnect Unnecessary Electronics

Unplug non-essential electronics to protect against power surges and reduce the risk of fire. This can also save on electricity costs.

10.) Store Valuables Safely

Place valuable items, such as jewelry, important documents, and electronics, in a safe or secure them in hidden places. Avoid leaving valuables in plain sight.

11.) Check Your Insurance Policy

Review your homeowner’s insurance policy to ensure it’s up-to-date and provides adequate coverage for any potential losses while you’re away.

12.) Perform a Last-Minute Check

Before you leave, perform a final walkthrough of your home to ensure everything is secure. Check that all windows and doors are locked, the alarm system is activated, and lights are set on timers.

By taking these proactive steps, you can significantly reduce the risk of break-ins and enjoy your vacation with greater peace of mind. Installing a home security system, using smart home devices, securing doors and windows, and enlisting the help of neighbors are all effective strategies to keep your home safe while you’re away. Remember, the key is to create the appearance that your home is still occupied and to eliminate any obvious signs that you’re not there. Safe travels!