Secure Your Doors and Windows
Before you even think about packing your bags, walk around your house and check all your doors and windows. Make sure all exterior doors are locked securely, including those leading to the garage or backyards. Consider adding extra locks or security bars to particularly vulnerable doors or windows, especially if you live in a less secure area. Check that all window latches and locks are in good working order. If you have sliding glass doors, consider installing a sliding glass door lock to prevent them from being forced open. A simple visual check can prevent many break-ins.
Smart Home Security Systems: Your Vacation’s Best Friend
Smart home security systems offer a level of peace of mind that’s hard to beat. These systems often include features like motion detectors, door/window sensors, and cameras that you can monitor remotely through a smartphone app. Before you leave, make sure your system is armed and that you’ve received notification that it’s operational. Consider setting up automated routines, like turning lights on and off at various times to simulate your presence. Many systems allow you to share access with trusted neighbors or family members who can keep an eye on things while you’re away.
Lighting: The Illusion of Occupancy
Empty houses are prime targets for burglars. A simple way to deter potential intruders is to make your house appear occupied even when it’s not. Consider using smart bulbs that can be programmed to turn on and off at random times, mimicking your normal lighting schedule. If you don’t have smart bulbs, you can use timers to control traditional lights, although these are less flexible. Leaving a lamp on in a visible window isn’t a foolproof method, but it can add to the overall impression of a lived-in home.
Stop Mail and Newspaper Delivery
A pile of mail and newspapers piling up on your doorstep is a clear sign that you’re not home. Contact your post office to temporarily suspend mail delivery. Similarly, contact your newspaper provider to temporarily halt your subscription or arrange for a neighbor to pick up your paper. These simple steps prevent a visual indication of your absence, making your home less of a target.
Inform Your Neighbors
Letting your neighbors know you’ll be away is a crucial step in home security. They can keep an eye on your property, pick up any packages delivered, and report any suspicious activity. Consider exchanging phone numbers so that you can easily contact them in case of an emergency. A friendly chat with your neighbours is a simple but effective security measure.
Garage Security: More Than Just a Car
Your garage often contains valuable items, from tools and lawn equipment to your car. Ensure that your garage door is securely closed and locked, even if it’s attached to your house. Consider installing a smart garage door opener that allows you to monitor and control your garage door remotely. If you have an automatic garage door opener, disconnect the automatic opener from the power supply to prevent someone from opening it remotely.
Valuables and Hidden Items: Out of Sight, Out of Mind
Before you leave, take extra care to secure valuable items. Consider storing jewelry, electronics, and other valuable items in a safe or a safety deposit box. Don’t leave valuables in plain sight, especially near windows or doors. If you have any particularly sensitive documents or items that you’d rather not risk, consider storing them with a trusted friend or family member.
Unplug Electronics: Power Down for Peace of Mind
Unplugging electronics isn’t just about saving energy; it’s about security. Unplug or turn off electronics that aren’t essential while you’re away. This will prevent them from becoming potential targets for thieves or causing a power surge in case of a malfunction. Additionally, it reduces the risk of fire.
Water Shut-off: Preventing Potential Damage
Before you leave for an extended vacation, consider turning off your main water supply. This can prevent significant damage in the event of a pipe burst or other plumbing issues while you’re away. While inconvenient to turn back on, the peace of mind of preventing a flood is invaluable.
Document Everything: Photos and Inventory
Before you leave, take photos or videos of your valuables. This can be helpful for insurance purposes if anything is stolen or damaged. Create a detailed inventory of your possessions, noting serial numbers and other identifying information. Keep these documents in a safe place, ideally off-site or stored digitally in the cloud. Read also about how to keep your house safe while on vacation.