Planning a vacation? Fantastic! But then, you do not have to jump into traveling just yet; first, ensure that your home is well secured. Follow these ideas for practical measures that will assist with keeping your home safe while it is empty.
1. Lock Everything
Doors: Ensure that all doors inside and outside the home especially the garage doors are well checked twice.
Windows: Make sure all the windows are locked.
Gates and Sheds: Encase any exterior equipment.
2. Install a Security System
Alarm System: Thus, it may be a helpful idea to install a good and reputable house alarm system in case you do not have one.
Surveillance Cameras: The latest models of the cameras can be controlled through your mobile phone remotely.
Motion Sensors: These can help to discourage any persons who may be planning to invade the home of another person.
3. Use Smart Home Devices
Smart Lights: Timers and smart bulbs are to make the customer believe that there is someone at home even when they are not.
Smart Plugs: One could manipulate lights, blinds, and fans to turn them on and off, open/closing the blinds, and start/freeze the fans respectively.
Smart Locks: Open and look all the door locks from the comfort of the house.
4. They should contain items that do not tempt a thief, and any other valuables should not be exposed openly.
Inside the Home: Keep items with monetary value secure such as in safe or other concealed area.
Cars: Do not leave your things obviously visible within your car to avoid carjacking.
5. Don't Broadcast Your Absence
Social Media: Don’t announce to the whole world that you are traveling; wait until you get back.
Voicemail: Do not, absolutely do not announce you are on vacation in your voice mail greeting.
6. Ask for Help
Neighbors: Tell a friendly next-door neighbor to watch your home for you.
Friends or Family: Ask someone to pick up your mail and newspapers on the same day.
Pet Sitters: Working with a pet sitter can also be of benefit when it comes to security of the home.
7. Maintain Your Home’s Appearance
Lawn Care: They have time to get someone else to mow their lawn or shovel the snow for them.
Outdoor Lights: Putting up motion-sensor lights around the house out side is also a good measure to be taken.
8. Secure Spare Keys
Hidden Keys: Do not leave keys outside, they can be easily traced and this is very dangerous. Take one to a friend’s house or a close neighbor that you trust.
Lock Boxes: It is also possible to use a lockbox that has a password that only you know.
9. Check Insurance
Review Policies: Ensure that the house is well insured and the insurance policy as well covers house breaks ins.
Inventory Valuables: Take pictures and photographs of the items to be insured to avoid disputes on their value in case of a loss.
10. Prepare for Emergencies
Contact Information: Inform a neighbor or a friend to give your contact information.
Emergency Numbers: Make sure your security company and local police offices have your phone numbers.
Enjoy your vacation with peace of mind knowing your home is secure. Safe travels!
