Heading out on vacation is an exciting time, but securing your home is an essential step before you leave. A vacant house can become a target for burglaries or experience unexpected problems like electrical malfunctions or leaks. By preparing your home in advance, you can reduce these risks and travel with confidence. The peace of mind that comes with knowing your home is safe lets you focus on enjoying your trip. Here are some practical tips to ensure your house stays secure.
Lock Every Door and Window
Don’t let the excitement of heading out cause you to forget about basement windows or side doors. Take the time to secure all entry points, including garage and pet doors, for total home protection. Reinforce sliding glass doors with a security bar or rod to prevent forced entry. Make locking up an essential step in your travel preparations. This straightforward action ensures your home stays safe and your trip remains worry-free.
Adopt Home Automation Technology
Smart home devices can be a game-changer for securing your home when you’re away. Install smart locks for remote control, video doorbells to track visitors, and cameras for 24-hour monitoring. Most systems include live video feeds and motion detection alerts for your phone. Use smart lights to simulate activity by setting them to turn on and off at different times. These solutions provide reliable security and peace of mind.
Implement A Home Security System
Prevent burglaries by investing in a professionally installed home security system. With features like visible cameras, alarm signs, and security stickers, intruders will be less likely to target your home. Modern systems come with 24/7 monitoring, emergency response capabilities, and the ability to integrate with smart home devices. Be sure to arm your system before leaving for added security. This extra step guarantees your home remains protected.
Avoid Announcing Your Absence
Avoid sharing your vacation plans on social media while you’re away to keep your home safe. Posting updates can alert burglars that your house is unoccupied. Save your vacation photos for after you return. Also, ensure your mail and packages are collected so they don’t pile up and signal your absence.
Hold Mail and Deliveries Until Further Notice
Piles of uncollected mail and packages outside can easily signal that you’re not home. Have the post office hold your mail while you’re away to prevent this. You can also use a secure parcel box for deliveries or reschedule them. Another option is to ask a reliable neighbor to pick up your mail and packages for you.
Give Your Home A Comfortable, Lived-In Appearance
Creating the appearance of someone being home can help prevent burglaries. Use timers for lights, radios, or TVs to simulate normal household activity. Leave your curtains or blinds in their usual position, as closed blinds may seem out of place. If possible, have a trusted neighbor park their car in your driveway to enhance the illusion.
Tell A Trusted Neighbor Or Friend
Inform a reliable neighbor, friend, or family member about your trip and ask them to keep an eye on your property. They can look out for unusual activity, collect your mail, and care for your plants. Provide them with a key and your emergency contact details, so they can access your home or contact you if necessary.
Safeguard Precious Items
To protect valuable items such as jewelry, important documents, and electronics, keep them in a home safe or safety deposit box. Make sure valuables are out of sight, especially from windows, to prevent attracting burglars. If you use a safe, ensure it is fireproof and bolted securely to the floor or wall for added protection against theft.
Disconnect Electrical Appliances
To reduce fire risks and prevent damage from power surges, unplug non-essential electronics such as toasters, TVs, and computers. Ensure that critical systems like refrigerators stay plugged in and are working properly.
Change The Temperature On Your Thermostat
Set your thermostat to a temperature that helps conserve energy while still protecting your home. In winter, keep the heat on to prevent pipes from freezing. In summer, maintain a moderate level to prevent overworking your HVAC system.
Cut Off Water Flow Valve
Minimize water damage risk by turning off the main water supply before you leave to prevent leaks or burst pipes. If that’s not an option, you can shut off water to appliances like washing machines or dishwashers. A water leak detector is a great addition to help monitor for any issues.
Reinforce Outdoor Spaces
Protect your yard and exterior by storing outdoor furniture, tools, and equipment securely to prevent theft. Trim bushes and trees that might conceal burglars. Lock gates and fences, and install motion-activated lights to enhance your home’s safety.
Evaluate Your Insurance Plans
Ensure your homeowner’s insurance covers theft, fire, and natural disasters before leaving. Keep a list of emergency contacts, such as your insurance provider, so you’re ready for any unexpected situations while you’re away.
Complete a Final Inspection
Perform a final walkthrough before leaving to confirm everything is in order. Check that doors and windows are locked, lights are on timers, and appliances are turned off. Use a checklist to ensure you don’t forget anything.
Prepare properly before your vacation to eliminate stress and keep your home secure. By using these tips, you can minimize risks and focus on enjoying your trip. A little planning now can save you from future headaches. Stay safe and have a wonderful trip!