There are many different ways to enjoy vacation. Your get-away can be relaxing, adventurous, social or reflective. But one requirement for all successful out-of-town vacations is that your home remain safe and secure in your absence. If you don’t have peace of mind, how can you escape into your vacation? Fortunately, there are simple steps you can take to protect your home and belongings when you are away.
1) Make Your Home Look Like You Never Left
Keep a car in your driveway
One of the simplest ways to make your home look lived-in is to keep your car parked in the driveway. If you are taking your car on vacation or if your driveway will be empty, consider asking a neighbor if they wouldn’t mind parking a car in front of your house. This gives the illusion that someone is home and can deter potential burglars.
Use timed lighting
You can use timers to turn your lights on and off at specific times. This will create the appearance that someone is home and going about their daily routine.
Empty your mailbox
Another important step is to pick up your mail or have someone collect it for you. An overflowing mailbox is a telltale sign that no one is home, making your home an easy target for burglars. You can either ask a neighbor to pick up your mail or contact your local post office to hold it until you return.
Remove spare keys
Remove any spare keys that may be hidden outside. Burglars are experts at finding these hidden keys, so it's best to avoid this security risk altogether. Instead, give a trusted neighbor or friend a spare key and ask them to keep an eye on your property while you're away.
2) Invest in a Good Home Security System
When it comes to protecting your home, investing in a good home security system is one of the most effective and reliable options available. With advancements in technology, there are now a wide variety of home security systems to choose from, each offering different features and levels of protection.
One of the key benefits of having a home security system is the peace of mind it provides. Knowing that your home is being monitored and protected 24/7 can greatly reduce any anxiety or worry you may have while on vacation. Many security systems also offer the option to receive real-time notifications and alerts on your smartphone, allowing you to stay connected to your home even when you're miles away.
Before leaving your Western North Carolina home for vacation, make sure to thoroughly check your security system and all its components. Test the alarm to ensure it's functioning correctly, check that all cameras are positioned correctly and capturing clear footage, and notify your security company of your travel plans, ensuring that your contact information is up to date.
If you don’t already have a security system, then connecting with a reliable and local service provider like Southern Alarm & Security will help you determine the type of system and features will work best for you. They can get you set up so you can leave home with confidence.
3) Secure Your Doors and Windows
Make sure all doors and windows are locked and secure. This may seem obvious, but it's easy to overlook a window or forget to lock a door when you're in a rush. Take the time to double-check that all locks are functioning properly and that there are no gaps or cracks that could be exploited by burglars.
Consider installing deadbolt locks on all exterior doors. These locks provide an extra layer of security and are more difficult for burglars to pick or break.
Remember to secure basement windows as well, as these are often a prime target for burglars.
In addition to securing your doors and windows, take steps to make them less appealing to intruders. Keep curtains closed when you're away to prevent potential thieves from peering inside and seeing if there are any valuables worth stealing. Or if, on the other hand, closed curtains are a “tell” because you normally keep them open, don’t close them and instead remove tempting valuables from view.
4) Enlist the Help of Trusted Neighbors or Friends
When you go on vacation, it's always a good idea to let your trusted neighbors or friends know about your travel plans. They can be an extra set of eyes on your property and provide an added layer of security while you're away.
Let them know the dates you'll be away and provide them with your contact information so they can reach you if needed. It's a good idea to provide them with a spare key to your home in case of an emergency. Ask your neighbors or friends to periodically check on your property. They can make sure that everything looks normal. They might even help keep your lawn mown.
Be sure to express your gratitude to your neighbors or friends for their help and let them know that you are always available to return the favor. Building strong relationships with your neighbors can not only provide added security but also create a sense of community.
5) Keep Your Travel Plans Off Social Media
When you're excited about an upcoming vacation, it's natural to want to share your plans with friends and family. However, one of the most important tips for protecting your home while you're away is to keep travel plans off social media. While it may be tempting to post about your exotic destination or countdown the days until you leave, broadcasting your absence can be an open invitation for burglars to target your home.
Social media isn't the only way to stay connected with your loved ones while you're on vacation. Instead of sharing every detail of your trip online, save your vacation pictures and updates for after you return. Use this time to enjoy your vacation to the fullest, knowing that you've taken steps to secure your home.
By taking these simple but effective steps, you can greatly reduce the risk of a break-in while you're on vacation. And remember to check your alarm system and contact your security company before leaving to ensure everything is in working order. Relax and enjoy your vacation, knowing that your home is safe and protected.