The flights are booked, hotel rooms reserved and the itinerary set. Summer vacation is here and you can’t wait to get away for some fun and R&R. But before you embark on this season’s big trip, make sure you’re safe on the home front.
Set Timers
If there’s usually a lot of activity at your house, create the illusion that you’re home by setting timers for lights, TV, sound system, etc. Turning these activities on at their usual times makes it appear as if you never left.
Close The Window Treatments
Windows left wide open means the interior of your home is on display for all to see. Reduce visibility and protect your valuables by keeping blinds, shades or drapery slightly closed or completely drawn while you’re away. And for those of us living in a high-tech smart home, consider adding motorized window treatments to the list of activities to be placed on a timer, that way they will open and close like normal each day.
Place Vacation Holds
Nothing screams you’re out of town more than a pile of newspapers in the driveway. Most delivery services allow you to place a vacation hold while you’re away. Just specify the dates you’ll be gone and they will hold your mail, papers, etc. until you get back.
Neighborly Check-In
If you’re gone for more than a couple nights, ask your neighbor to keep an eye on your house, that way they can alert you to things like a package that was delivered while you’re away. And if they are super neighborly, ask them to mow your lawn. Unmowed grass is a big signal that you’re away, so make arrangements with your neighbor or a service before you go on vacation.
Create a Mess
As annoying as it may be to come home to a messy place, a home that appears too tidy can signal to others that you’re not home. While you’re away, leave dishes in the sink, the bed unmade or keep the car in the driveway. That way to intruders, you look like you’re still home or will return at any moment.
Don’t Tell Facebook
It may be tempting to “check in” to your destination via Facebook or share all the fun you’re having on Instagram, however the “likes” and comments you’ll get from your vacation posts aren’t worth the risk of alerting the world that you’re away and your home and all its valuables are unattended. Keep your belongings safe and post vacation photos when you’ve returned.
Hide Your Valuables
Expensive valuables like electronics or jewelry should never be in plain sight when you’re not home. Before you go on vacation, take a moment to hide the possessions you would be devastated to lose during a break-in. And don’t hide them in common places, like under your bed or in your sock drawer. Make it challenging, but not too hard that you forget where you put things!
Do you have any tips to keep your home safe while on vacation? Share them in the comments.
Photo credit: Justin Long Design | Houzz
