Before heading off on vacation, remember to prepare your home for your time away. Unoccupied homes can be vulnerable to break-ins or face issues like water leaks or electrical failures. Taking simple precautions can help you protect your house and enjoy peace of mind. A secure home ensures you can fully relax and focus on your trip. Use these guidelines to safeguard your home before you leave.
Lock All Access Points to Your Home
As you prepare for your vacation, don’t let basement windows or side doors be an afterthought. Verify that every entry point, including garage and pet doors, is locked and secure. Sliding glass doors can be made safer with the addition of a rod or security bar. Locking up thoroughly should be a top priority before leaving. This simple action ensures your home is safe, letting you enjoy your trip without worry.
Make Use Of Smart Home Features
When you’re away, smart home devices can keep your home secure and under surveillance. Install smart locks for remote access, video doorbells for visitor tracking, and cameras for 24/7 monitoring. These systems alert you instantly if anything out of the ordinary is detected. Use smart lights to make your home appear lived-in by scheduling them to turn on and off. This technology enhances your home’s safety and offers convenience and peace of mind.
Buy A Home Security System
To prevent burglaries, a professionally installed home security system is a key investment. Features like visible cameras, alarm signs, and stickers can help deter intruders. Modern systems often include 24/7 monitoring, emergency response, and smart home integrations. If you have a security system in place, remember to arm it before you leave. This extra step ensures your home stays protected while you’re away.
Keep Your Whereabouts Private
To protect your home, refrain from posting about your vacation on social media while you’re away. Doing so can alert burglars that your house is unoccupied. Save your vacation photos for when you return. Also, avoid leaving mail or packages visible, as they can be obvious signs you’re not home.
Keep Mail and Deliveries On Hold
Uncollected mail and packages outside your home can signal that it’s empty. To prevent this, arrange for the post office to hold your mail while you’re gone. You can also secure your packages by using a parcel box or rescheduling deliveries. Another option is to ask a trusted neighbor to collect your mail and packages during your absence.
Give Your Home A Lived-In Vibe
An occupied look can help deter burglars. Set timers to turn on lights, TVs, or radios to replicate normal household activity. Avoid closing curtains or blinds completely, as this can make it obvious that you’re away. If you can, have a neighbor park their car in your driveway occasionally to create the impression that someone is home.
Reach Out To A Neighbor Or Friend For Assistance
Let a neighbor, friend, or family member know about your upcoming trip and ask them to keep an eye on your property. They can monitor any suspicious activity, collect your mail, or take care of your plants while you’re gone. Make sure to provide them with a key and your emergency contact information if they need to access your home or reach you.
Safeguard Your Valuables
Secure valuables like jewelry, important documents, and electronics by keeping them in a home safe or a safety deposit box. Avoid placing valuables in plain sight where they could be visible through windows. Ensure that your safe is fireproof and bolted to the floor or wall to provide extra security against theft.
Unplug Devices
To avoid fire risks and power surge damage, unplug non-essential electronics like toasters, TVs, and computers. Ensure that essential appliances like refrigerators stay plugged in and are operating properly.
Regulate Your Thermostat
To conserve energy and protect your home, adjust your thermostat to a reasonable temperature. In the winter, keep the heat running to prevent frozen pipes. During the summer, set the temperature moderately to avoid overworking your HVAC system.
Turn Off Water Flow
Protect your home from water damage by turning off the main water supply before you leave to prevent leaks or burst pipes. If that’s not possible, consider turning off the water to appliances like washing machines or dishwashers. A water leak detector can help you identify potential problems before they cause damage.
Protect Your Outdoor Spaces
Take precautions with your yard and exterior before leaving. Store outdoor furniture, tools, and equipment in a safe location to avoid theft. Trim overgrown bushes and trees that could offer cover to burglars. Make sure gates and fences are locked, and consider installing motion-activated lights for added protection.
Inspect Insurance Policies
Review your homeowner’s insurance policy before you leave to confirm you’re protected against theft, fire, or natural disasters. Keep a list of emergency contacts, including your insurance provider, to ensure you’re ready for any issues while you’re gone.
Finalize with a Walkthrough
Do a final walkthrough of your home before leaving to ensure everything is properly secured. Lock all doors and windows, set the lights on timers, and turn off appliances. Use a checklist to confirm nothing is overlooked.
Proper preparation for your vacation can eliminate stress and help ensure your home is secure. By following these tips, you can minimize potential risks and focus on enjoying your trip. A little planning now can prevent problems later. Stay safe and enjoy your travels!