Install An Alarm System
Obviously, the best way to protect your home from potential burglars is by installing an alarm system. Just the threat of an alarm system (like a sign in your yard or a sticker on a window) can be enough to deter potential burglars. When you install an alarm system, the company equips all potential entry ways with alarms. Having an alarm system installed in your home can bring you more than peace of mind; it could also help you qualify for an extra discount on your homeowners insurance. Don’t have an alarm system? You can maybe fool burglars by hanging fake security company signs. Also, consider even installing fake security cameras. Sometimes just the little light shining on the camera is enough to deter would-be burglars.
Pay Someone To Mow The Lawn
If you’re going to be traveling for an extended period of time, make sure you hire someone to mow the lawn. An overgrown lawn is a visible indicator that no one’s in the home and can attract unwanted attention. Have someone mow the lawn on a weekly or bi-weekly basis. You’ll be happy when you return since someone is taking care of maintenance and you don’t have to worry about coming home to a nightmare lawn.
Address Mail Delivery
Before you leave for your vacation, consider putting a hold on your mail with the USPS. An overflowing mailbox is a sure sign that your family is away and on top of that, an overflowing mailbox increases the chance that something might fall out and get lost in the shuffle. At the very least, have a neighbor to select your mail and even park in the driveway while doing so.
Set Timers
Nothing says “empty house” like a home that stays dark for 12 days straight. Setting timers on your electronics, including lights and televisions, can give the illusion that people are occupying the home even when you’re miles away enjoying your vacation. Leave the TV volume turned up slightly to further sell the illusion.
Unplug All Appliances
To avoid electrical fires or power surges, make sure to unplug all unnecessary non-timed appliances—like TVs, coffee makers, lamps, etc. It is also a great idea to have all electronics plugged into a power strip that has a built-in surge protector.
Check Fire Protection
Make sure your smoke alarms are in working order and have a fire extinguisher on hand in case a house sitter needs to extinguish a blaze. Make sure any lamps on timers are using the correct wattage bulb and are well away from any combustibles.
Be Cautious on Social Media
When you’re on vacation, you want to share all your fun photos and status updates of the fun time you and your family are enjoying. But it’s important to be cautious on social media. Publicly posting you’re on vacation on social media can let the wrong person know that you’re not currently occupying your home.
Lock Up Completely
It’s a no-brainer to lock all your doors before going on vacation, but don’t neglect to secure other openings, like pet doors or mail slots, to prevent burglars from reaching in with a tool and unlocking the door. And if you have an automatic garage door, consider disconnecting the electronic opener and placing a padlock on the garage-door track instead. Smart locks can help you control the entry to your house remotely.
Remove Your Spare Key
Although you’ve surely thought of a really clever place to hide your spare key that isn’t underneath a doormat, above the door frame, or below a fake plastic rock, a seasoned criminal will search long and hard to find it. Simply remove the key before you leave and drop it off with a neighbor or family member for safekeeping.
You deserve a vacation. Just make sure you follow these tips to protect your home while you’re off enjoying your time off.