Traveling is an exciting way to unwind, but it’s crucial to secure your home before you go. An unattended home could attract burglars or face problems like plumbing leaks or power outages. Taking the time to safeguard your house can prevent such incidents and let you travel worry-free. Proper preparation ensures your home remains in good condition while you’re away. These easy-to-follow tips will help you protect your house before you leave.
Lock Every Window and Door
In your hurry to head out, don’t forget to secure a basement window or side door. Carefully check all entry points, including garage and pet doors, to make sure they’re locked. Enhance sliding glass door security with a bar or rod in the track. Make locking up your home one of the first things on your to-do list. This ensures your home stays safe while you’re away.
Adopt Connected Home Technology
Protect your home while you’re away with the help of smart home technology. Smart locks, video doorbells, and cameras allow you to monitor activity remotely and prevent intruders. These systems offer live video feeds and notify you instantly if anything unusual happens. Use smart lights to simulate your presence by programming them to operate at random intervals. This blend of security features ensures your home stays safe when you’re not around.
Purchase Home Surveillance Equipment
A professionally installed security system is a key investment to prevent burglaries. Visible cameras, alarm signs, and security stickers can make intruders think twice. Modern systems typically include 24/7 monitoring, emergency responses, and smart home device integrations. If you already have a system, don’t forget to arm it before leaving. This ensures your home stays safe and secure, even when you’re not there.
Don’t Advertise That You’re Away
Keep your vacation plans off social media to avoid attracting burglars. Posting updates while you’re away can make it clear that no one is home. Wait until after your trip to post photos and share your details. Be sure to arrange for someone to take care of your mail and packages.
Temporarily Stop Mail and Deliveries
Piles of mail or packages on your doorstep are clear signs to burglars that no one is home. Consider having your mail held at the post office during your vacation. For deliveries, reschedule them or use a secure parcel box. You could also ask a reliable neighbor to collect your mail and packages while you’re away.
Give Your Home A Homely, Lived-In Feel
Protect your home by giving the impression that it’s occupied. Use timers on lights, radios, or TVs to simulate daily activity. Avoid fully closing curtains or blinds, as this can appear suspicious. If possible, ask a neighbor to park their car in your driveway occasionally to reinforce the idea that someone is home.
Inform A Neighbor Or Friend You Can Trust
Inform a reliable neighbor, friend, or family member about your trip and ask them to help monitor your property. They can look out for unusual activity, collect your mail, or take care of your plants while you’re away. Be sure to provide them with a key and your emergency contact information in case they need to reach you or access your home.
Safeguard Key Items
Safeguard your jewelry, important documents, and electronics by placing them in a home safe or safety deposit box. Keep them out of view, particularly from windows, to avoid attracting attention. Ensure the safe is fireproof and bolted securely to the floor or wall to provide an extra layer of protection against theft.
Unplug Electrical Connections
Unplug non-essential electronics like toasters, TVs, and computers to reduce fire risks and avoid power surge damage. Ensure that refrigerators and other critical systems stay plugged in and are working properly.
Tune Your Thermostat
Keep your thermostat set to a temperature that saves energy while protecting your home. In winter, make sure the heat is on to prevent pipes from freezing. In the summer, keep the temperature moderate to reduce strain on your HVAC system.
Shut Off Water Line
To reduce the risk of water damage, turn off the main water supply before leaving your home. If that’s not an option, consider shutting off the water supply to appliances like washing machines or dishwashers. You can also install a water leak detector to help spot issues early.
Protect Your Outdoor Zones
For better security, store outdoor furniture, tools, and equipment in a secure location to prevent theft. Trim bushes and trees that could conceal burglars. Lock gates and fences, and install motion-activated lights to enhance your home’s safety.
Go Over Your Insurance Coverage
Check your homeowner’s insurance policy before leaving to ensure you’re protected from theft, fire, or natural disasters. Have a list of emergency contacts, including your insurance provider, so you’re ready in case anything happens during your absence.
Perform a Last Inspection
Before heading out, perform a final walkthrough of your home to confirm everything is secure. Check that all doors and windows are locked, lights are set on timers, and appliances are off. Use a checklist to ensure nothing is overlooked.
Minimize stress and ensure your home’s safety by preparing well before your vacation. By following these tips, you can minimize risks and focus on enjoying your trip. Proper preparation now can save you from headaches in the future. Stay safe and enjoy your travels!