Amongst all the excitement for an upcoming vacation, it’s easy to forget to double-check that your home is secure and protected. According to the Department of Justice, there are 14% more burglaries in the summer than in the winter across the U.S. The rate of household property victimization and household theft also peaks during the hottest months of the year, and happens to be when many of us pack our bags and head out for vacation.
While you’re out enjoying the summer weather, you don’t want to worry about what’s happening at home. To help put your mind at ease, here are 14 home security tips to protect your home while on vacation.
Home security tip #1: Lock all windows and doors before you leave
Over 22% of burglars enter a home through an unlocked front door or first-floor window. Your first line of defense is to make sure the windows and doors of your home are shut and locked properly. Do this a few weeks before your vacation to give yourself time to hire a locksmith to replace or rekey any locks. Double-check as you’re locking up to head out on holiday.
Home security tip #2: Install a home security system
Another way to protect your home is with a home security system. In addition to reducing the chance of burglary by 300%, many leading home security systems allow you to check up on your home right from your phone. You can even use your device to lock/unlock doors or check on pets in real-time via security cameras. Plus, your insurance provider may discount your home insurance premium up to 20% when you install a security system – and those savings could help pay for your vacation.
Home security tip #3: Advertise your home security
Security systems are a burglar’s worst enemy and can deter them from even attempting to break in. Post stickers or yard signs near your most obvious and accessible entry so burglars know your home is secure. For many intruders, they want to get in and out without trouble, and when they see an advertisement about your home’s security, they may think it’s more trouble than it’s worth and move on.
Home security tip #4: Avoid garage break-ins while you’re out of town
Many homeowners focus on the main body of their home and forget to secure the garage. There are several easy ways to protect your home from a garage break-in. Install motion detector lights on the corners of the garage, lock the garage service door, and hide valuables out of sight. If you leave a car in the driveway, be sure to remove the garage door remote.
Home security tip #5: Use light timers while you’re away
One way to protect your home is with light timers. They’re affordable, easy to install, and can help deter criminals by making your home look occupied. Choose a timer with a “random on/off” option. If your lights are set up to turn on and off at various times throughout the day and night, it can make it difficult for burglars to determine if the home is vacant.
Home security tip #6: Install outdoor security lights
As burglars prowl the neighborhood, they scan for homes and areas that are dark and hidden. Consider installing motion-activated security lights around your house. Not only will it startle the potential burglar, but also light up the area and make them much more visible.
Home security tip #7: Remove “hidden” keys
Over one-third of burglars enter a home through the front door, often using the homeowner’s “hidden” key. If there’s a key under your doormat or in another obvious location, remove it. You may also want to consider replacing your traditional front door lock with a keyless lock so you don’t even have to worry about keys.
Home security tip #8: Lock your valuables in a safe
Consider investing in a safe to keep your valuables secure. Make sure the safe is waterproof and fireproof so that your valuables are also protected in the event of a natural disaster. Hide your safe in a place that burglars are less likely to look.
Home security tip #9: Tidy up your yard
Prepare and protect your home by putting all your outdoor equipment – grills, bikes, and tools – in a secure shed or garage. Make sure to mow lawns and trim shrubs or trees so burglars can’t conceal themselves while trying to break into your home. If you have a gate that provides access to your yard, make sure it shuts and locks. Scan your property for anything a burglar might use to break into your home, like a brick or hammer, and take it inside or remove it from your property.
Home security tip #10: Arrange for lawn care
If you plan to be gone for a while, you might want to schedule lawn maintenance. If your lawn looks overgrown, it can be a telling sign no one is there to do upkeep. Consider calling your local landscaping company to clean up your front yard once or twice while you’re away.
Home security tip #11: Tell your neighbors you’ll be out of town
Assuming you trust your neighbors, inform them you’ll be on vacation and leave a number where they can reach you. Make them aware of anyone who might be visiting while you’re away, such as a house sitter or dog walker. For extra protection, ask your neighborhood watch to be on the lookout for any unusual activity near your home.
Home security tip #12: Protect your home with a sitter
Enlist the services of a house sitter to keep an eye on your home while you’re away. This can make protecting your home much easier, especially for those who have pets at home. Ask a trusted friend if they can house sit in addition to caring for any pets you have. They can bring in the mail, and take garbage and recycling bins to the curb. These everyday activities help hide the fact you’re not home.
Home security tip #13: Place a hold on mail delivery
A sure sign that you’re out of town is an overflowing mailbox. Consider placing all mail and package deliveries on hold until you return. If you’re out of town for longer than 30 days, have a family member or friend pick up your mail. If you’re heading out for an extended vacation, you might consider having your mail forwarded to your vacation home.
Home security tip #14: Take safety precautions with utilities
Protecting your house from a break-in is important, but you also want to avoid problems with utilities. Unplug appliances, turn off the water valves to all sinks, the dishwasher and washing machine, and test your smoke detectors. These precautions can help prevent any unexpected hazards like a house fire or flooding.