5 Ways to Keep Your Home Safe While On Vacation

Vacations allow us to unwind, spend time with family or explore new places. Leaving your home unattended, however, can make it vulnerable to potential security risks and you don’t want to worry about the safety of your property while you’re away. To ensure peace of mind during your travels, here are five ways to keep your home safe while on vacation:

1. Invest in a Home Security System:

One of the most reliable ways to protect your home is by installing a home security system. Modern systems are equipped with surveillance cameras, motion sensors, and even smartphone apps that allow you to monitor your property remotely. Some systems can also alert authorities or designated contacts in case of a breach, offering an added layer of protection. Knowing that your home is being watched over can also deter potential burglars.

2. Notify Trusted Neighbours or Friends

Informing a trustworthy neighbour or friend about your vacation plans is a smart move. They can keep an eye on your property, collect your mail, and even park their car in your driveway to give the impression that someone is home. Additionally, if any unexpected situations arise, they can call for help.

3. Avoid Advertising Your Absence

In this digital age, it’s essential to be cautious about what you share on social media. Avoid posting about your vacation plans until after you return home. Broadcasting your absence can be an open invitation to burglars, as they can easily identify when your house is unoccupied. Save the photo uploads for when you’re back from your trip and enjoy the memories without compromising your home’s security.

4. Secure Doors and Windows

Before leaving for your vacation, thoroughly inspect all doors and windows to ensure they are properly locked and secured. Consider investing in high-quality deadbolts and reinforce any weak points. Sliding doors can be vulnerable, so place a sturdy dowel or rod in the track to prevent them from being forced open. If you have a spare key hidden outside, remove it, as burglars often know common hiding spots.

5. Utilize Timers for Lights and Electronics

A dark and silent house is a telltale sign that no one is home. To create the illusion of occupancy, use timers for lights, televisions, or radios. Set them to turn on and off at different times of the day to simulate the presence of people in the house. This simple trick can discourage potential intruders and make your home less appealing as a target.

6. Check what your policy says about unoccupied periods

Some homeowner policies have limits to the length of time your home can be unoccupied. Be sure to review your policy for the coverage allotted to the vacancy before planning an extended stay.

While going on vacation is a time to relax and enjoy yourself, it’s crucial not to neglect the safety of your home. By implementing these five ways to keep your home safe, you can embark on your adventures with peace of mind.  Bon voyage and happy, worry-free travels!