In the packing and planning madness that can ensue before leaving on vacation it’s easy to think that simply locking the doors and setting the alarm is all you need to do to protect your house while you’re gone. Unfortunately, the reality is that not preparing your home for your absence can lead to issues. While the FBI estimates that there are at least 2.5+ million home break-ins per year the good news is that there are a few simple things you can do to keep your property safe while you’re away.
10 Steps to Protect Your Property While on Vacation
1. Buy a Security System – While this may seem like a no brainer some homeowners can be scared off due to the impression that security can be expensive. We find that this is rarely the case and would recommend contacting a local security company to find a plan to meet your budget.
2. Be Smart with Social Media – Nowadays thieves use all forms of social media to target vacant homes while their owners are away. This doesn’t mean that you have to avoid posting all together however, simply make sure that your privacy settings are set up accordingly.
3. Turn down the water heater –This step is commonly overlooked, but if you keep the water heater low while you’re gone, you’ll save money by reducing your electricity or gas bill for the month.
4. Don’t leave a spare key outside – Burglars, like most people, prefer to enter your home through the front door. If you leave a key out, even if it’s hidden, chances are they’ll find it and use it.
5. Put the mail on hold – Yes, it’s a pain, but nothing says that no one is home like a full mailbox.
6. Time Those Lights – Indoor light timers are a very inexpensive and efficient way to give off the impression that someone is home. Think of Home Alone with the lights and moving cardboard cut outs.
7. Your Home, Unplugged – Unplug all devices and small appliances that are not vital while away. Even when not in use some appliances can use power and as a result unnecessarily increase your utility bill.
8. Stop the Press – Similar to handling your mail either put these services on hold or have a friend pick them up for you.
9. Unplug the Garage Door – Thieves these days will often use universal remotes to open your garage door and force their way in through the back door. If you unplug the garage door opener, no one can open the garage door without going through the house first, making it harder for criminals to be successful.
10. Ask a friend for help – We all need a little help from our friends. While you’re on vacation, ask a neighbor to pull your trash cans out, pick up deliveries or just visit the house so it looks like it’s being lived in. The more it looks like you’re home, the less likely thieves will think about doing any damage.
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