Doesn’t it feel like when you’re planning for your vacation, you’re bound to forget something? You could be the most organized person in the world, but there will always be something that falls to the wayside. Of all the things that could be forgotten, you can’t overlook home security. You may live in the safest neighborhood around, but you never know when there’s someone lurking in the shadows that want to rob you blind. However, you can protect your home from being burglarized with these five simple tips.
1. Check your entryways
The number one rule of leaving your house is to make sure all entryways are secured. Locking them is fine, but sometimes a lock isn’t enough to deter a determined burglar! They could break the glass, unlock the window or door, open it, and BAM! Your belongings are ripe for the taking. You can avoid this (or at least make it a little more challenging) by putting something in the tracks so that the window or door can’t be opened.
2. Stop deliveries
Burglars often do reconnaissance when they’re trying to find their next mark. They’ll look for signs that let them know that someone isn’t home and hasn’t been home for some time. One of these signs is a collection of packages or newspapers on the stoop and a mailbox full of mail. This isn’t really a problem if you’re going on a long weekend, but if you’re going to be away longer than a week… Contact your post office and newspaper provider to let them know you’ll be away and want to put a hold on your deliveries. You can also ask a neighbor or a loved one to collect your mail and deliveries if you prefer.
3. Create the illusion that you’re still home
Seasoned burglars not only look for an abundance of mail that clearly hasn’t been picked up, but they’re also monitoring the daily routine of the home’s residents. You can use timers and smart devices to mimic your routine. We especially like when you can control these devices remotely via your smartphone.
Some ways you can utilize smart devices to create the illusion that someone is still home include:
- Leave a light on in the kitchen and living room
- Keep a car in the driveway if possible
- Allow your sprinkler system to run as normal instead of turning it off while you’re away
- Use plugs with timers and set the timers to the usual times that you’re home
4. Keep travel details off of social media
Ideally, when we post things to social media, we’re posting updates for our friends and loved ones. However, social media is not the safe space we want it to be and it can be a treasure trove for would-be burglars. That’s why we strongly recommend keeping details about your trip to yourself – or at the very least vague. Once you come back, don’t hesitate to gush about the trip!
5. Bring the hide-a-key inside
We’ve all had an instance where we were distracted by something and walked out the door without our keys. If you’re like us, you’ve probably done this more than once and decided to keep a hide-a-key outside so that you’re not locked out again! Unfortunately, burglars know that it’s quite common for homeowners to do this and they even know the common hiding spots, too. Don’t give them an easy way in by leaving your key outside! Make sure to bring the spare key inside. And, if you’re selling your house and your agent uses the spare for showings, just give them the key!
Keeping your home safe should be a top priority
Our homes are our sanctuaries but that doesn’t mean we don’t love a getaway! Before you start planning your next trip, make sure your home doesn’t become some sticky-fingered creep’s next target. These tips are just the start. If you want true protection, a home security system is always a worthwhile investment!
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