Summer vacations are the perfect time to unwind, explore new destinations, and create lasting memories with your family and friends. However, as you embark on your adventures, it’s important to ensure that your home remains safe and secure during your absence. By taking a few precautionary measures, you can enjoy your vacation with peace of mind, knowing that your home is protected from potential threats. Keep reading below for some essential security measures that you can implement to safeguard your home during summer travel.
Tell Your Trusted Neighbors
One of the simplest, yet most effective, security measures is to inform your trusted neighbors about your vacation plans. They can keep an eye on your property, collect mail or packages, and report any suspicious activities to you or law enforcement while you’re away. Maintaining a good relationship with neighbors creates a strong sense of community, fostering a safer environment for everyone.
Install Security Systems
Investing in a reliable home security system is an excellent long-term investment for protecting your home. From burglar alarms to surveillance cameras, modern security systems offer advanced features such as mobile app access, motion sensors, and real-time alerts. Do your research or consider consulting with a professional security company to determine the best system for your specific needs.
Secure All Entry Points
Before leaving for vacation, ensure that all doors, windows, and entry points are securely locked. Don’t forget to check and secure any potential weak spots, such as basement windows or side entrances as well.
Put Lights on a Timer
An unlit home can be a signal to potential intruders that the house is vacant. Utilize timers for your indoor and outdoor lights to create the illusion of an occupied home. Set timers to turn on and off at different times throughout the evening to mimic your regular routines.
Pause All Deliveries
Mail or package deliveries can accumulate if you are gone for an extended time, indicating an empty home. Temporarily halt newspaper deliveries and arrange for mail pickup or forwarding (or see the first point above and have a trusted neighbor help you out in this area). Additionally, consider pausing any other regular services that could reveal your absence, such as house cleaning, etc.
Put a Hold on Social Media
While it’s very tempting to share vacation plans and photos on social media, be cautious about what you post publicly. Broadcasting your absence can inadvertently attract unwanted attention. Instead, wait until you return to share your vacation experiences to avoid providing potential burglars with information about an empty home.
Keep a “Lived-In” Appearance
Before leaving, take steps to maintain a lived-in appearance. Ask a neighbor to park their car in your driveway occasionally, mow the lawn, or water the plants. Set up an automated sprinkler system or use smart home technology to control lights and other devices remotely, simulating activity inside and around your home.
Secure Valuables
Ensure that your valuable possessions are safely stored away. Consider placing jewelry, important documents, and other valuable items in a locked safe or a safety deposit box. By taking this precaution, you minimize the risk of losing irreplaceable items in the event of a break-in.
By implementing these security measures, you can greatly reduce the risk of problems and ensure the safety of your home during vacations. Remember, prevention is key when it comes to protecting your most significant investment. Put these ideas in place and go enjoy your well-deserved vacation. Create beautiful memories, recharge your energy, and return home knowing that you’ve taken the necessary steps to ensure the safety of your residence.
Have questions or looking for a new place to call home? Give us a call (417-777-3300) or swing by our office. We’d be happy to show you what options are currently available.