Traveling can be an exciting adventure, but the safety of your home while you’re away is always a concern. Whether you’re going on a weekend getaway or a long vacation, securing your home should be a priority to protect against potential threats like burglaries, vandalism, or unexpected damage. By taking a few simple precautions, you can leave home with peace of mind knowing your property is safe. Here’s a guide on how to secure your home while traveling, ensuring you can enjoy your trip without worry.
1. Invest in a Home Security System
A reliable home security system is one of the most effective ways to protect your property while you’re away. Modern systems provide a range of features that allow you to monitor your home remotely, receive real-time alerts, and even contact law enforcement in case of a break-in.
Key Features to Look for:
- Surveillance Cameras: Place security cameras at key entry points, such as front doors, back doors, and windows. This deters burglars and allows you to monitor your home in real-time.
- Motion Detectors and Alarms: Motion sensors can detect unusual activity and trigger an alarm, which will notify you or your security provider instantly.
- Smart Technology: Many home security systems integrate with smartphone apps, enabling you to check in on your home from anywhere in the world.
2. Use Smart Lighting
Burglars often look for signs that indicate whether a home is vacant, such as lights that remain off or on for extended periods. Smart lighting can help simulate occupancy by turning lights on and off at specific intervals, giving the illusion that someone is home.
How to Use Smart Lighting:
- Automated Timers: Set your lights to turn on and off at different times in various rooms to mimic daily activity.
- Control Lights Remotely: Smart lighting systems allow you to control lights from your phone, so you can adjust lighting schedules even while you’re traveling.
- Outdoor Motion-Activated Lights: Installing motion-activated lights outside your home can startle potential intruders and make it harder for them to approach unnoticed.
3. Secure All Entry Points
Before you leave for your trip, ensure that all doors, windows, and other entry points are securely locked. Many break-ins occur because homeowners leave doors or windows unlocked, providing easy access for burglars.
Steps to Secure Entry Points:
- Check Windows and Doors: Double-check that all windows, doors, and sliding glass doors are locked. For extra protection, install deadbolts or window locks.
- Upgrade Locks: Consider installing smart locks, which allow you to lock and unlock doors remotely and monitor who enters your home.
- Garage Security: Don’t forget to lock your garage doors, and if possible, disconnect the garage opener to prevent it from being hacked.
4. Inform a Trusted Neighbor or Friend
Having someone keep an eye on your home while you’re away is a great way to add an extra layer of security. Ask a trusted neighbor, friend, or family member to check in on your property, collect mail, and ensure everything looks normal.
What They Can Help With:
- Collecting Mail and Packages: A full mailbox or packages left on the doorstep are telltale signs that no one is home. Ask your neighbor to collect them for you or request a hold on mail delivery from the postal service.
- Regular Check-ins: Have them walk around your property to check for any signs of suspicious activity. If you’re comfortable, provide them with a spare key to enter in case of emergencies.
- Watering Plants: If you’re going to be gone for an extended period, ask them to take care of your plants, which will also give the appearance that someone is home.
5. Keep Valuables Out of Sight
Valuables in plain sight can tempt burglars. Before leaving, make sure any expensive items such as electronics, jewelry, or artwork are not visible through windows. Keeping them hidden reduces the likelihood of your home being targeted.
Additional Tips:
- Use a Safe: Store small valuables, important documents, and cash in a home safe that is fireproof and bolted to the ground.
- Close Curtains and Blinds: While it may seem counterintuitive, drawing your curtains and blinds can keep potential burglars from peering into your home. Just be sure it doesn’t make the home appear too obviously unoccupied.
6. Suspend Deliveries and Services
A buildup of mail, newspapers, or flyers on your doorstep is a clear indication that no one is home. If you’re going to be away for more than a few days, suspend regular deliveries and services.
Services to Consider Suspending:
- Mail Delivery: Request a temporary hold on mail through the post office.
- Newspaper Subscriptions: Pause newspaper deliveries to prevent papers from piling up.
- Lawn Care Services: If you’re away for a longer period, hire a service to mow the lawn or maintain the yard so it doesn’t look neglected.
7. Avoid Oversharing on Social Media
While it can be tempting to share photos and updates of your travels on social media, doing so can alert potential intruders that you’re not home. Criminals often monitor social media accounts to find homes that are vacant.
Safe Social Media Practices:
- Wait Until You Return: Post pictures and updates after you’ve returned from your trip.
- Limit Visibility: Adjust your social media privacy settings so only trusted friends and family can see your posts.
- Avoid Location Tags: Don’t tag your location in posts, as this can give away your absence in real time.
Conclusion
Securing your home while traveling doesn’t have to be complicated. By investing in a reliable security system, using smart lighting, securing entry points, and taking simple precautions like asking a neighbor for help, you can protect your home and enjoy your trip with peace of mind. Implement these essential home security tips to ensure your property remains safe, even when you’re miles away.
