Going away on a much-needed vacation can be exciting. Still, it’s important to remember that your home needs protecting too! Burglary and other home invasions are real threats while you’re away, so it pays to be aware and take steps to protect your home.
The number of burglaries increases by up to 30% during the peak holiday season, just when you’re away from your property. This is because your house is seen as an easy target since it’s empty.
Whether you’re traveling for a week or a month, there are several steps you can take to make sure your home stays safe while you’re away. Here is an overview of some of the best ways to ensure that your home is secure while you explore the world.
Check Your Security System
If you have a security system with cameras installed in your house, you must check that everything is functioning correctly before leaving. Make sure all the equipment is working, and double-check the settings for accuracy.
If something isn’t working correctly, contact an expert and get it fixed before taking your trip. Also, ensure that any motion sensors are enabled and functioning correctly so that you will be immediately alerted if there is any suspicious activity in or around your house.
Invest in a Good Fencing
Criminals often target homes with low or no fencing. It’s an added layer of security that can make your home significantly less attractive to burglars. Ensure the fence is tall enough, preferably 6-8 feet high, and invest in sturdy materials like wood or wrought iron.
While you might think that this is an easy DIY job, it pays to hire a reputable fencing contractor who can provide a top-quality job. A poorly installed fence can make your home more vulnerable, so get professionals involved in the process. After all, they can spot any potential weaknesses or issues before putting up the fence, significantly increasing its effectiveness.
Keep Valuables Out of Sight
When going on vacation, most people leave some items behind in their homes – from furniture and electronics to jewelry and other valuables. To minimize the risk of theft, it’s best to keep these valuable items out of sight when possible.
If there’s anything valuable that needs to stay out in the open (like an expensive piece of art or a large flat-screen TV), try covering them up with blankets or sheets before leaving so they won’t be seen from outside the house. This simple step can help deter potential thieves since they won’t know what valuables may be inside the home.
Ask Someone You Trust To Check In On Your Home
It can also help to ask someone you trust (a family member or close friend) to check in on your home while you’re away periodically. This could involve having them come by every few days and checking for signs of forced entry or unusual activity around your property – like broken windows or unlocked doors.
You can also ask them to collect mail and packing slips from online orders delivered while you are gone. Having someone check on your property periodically will give you peace of mind knowing that someone is looking after things while you’re away!
Arrange for Home Maintenance
Another great way to keep your home safe while traveling abroad is to arrange for regular home maintenance tasks such as mowing the lawn, cleaning gutters, or trimming shrubs. This will help ensure that there isn’t anything suspicious or out of place when you return from your trip.
Additionally, having someone come by regularly will make it seem like someone is still living in the house, which can deter potential robbers or intruders from attempting to break in.
Keep Some Lights On
A well-lit home can serve as a deterrent for potential criminals. Leaving lights on inside and outside your home can make it seem like someone is still living there, even when you’re away. It’s best to use timers or smart lighting systems that will turn lights on and off throughout the day to give the impression of regular activity at all times. Additionally, keeping some lights on will ensure that your home is visible and less likely to be targeted by criminals.
The Bottom Line
The key to keeping your home safe when traveling abroad is preparation! Taking proactive steps such as ensuring any security systems are functioning properly, hiding valuable items out of sight, and asking someone trustworthy to check in on your home regularly can help protect against potential burglars targeting vacant properties. By following these tips, not only will you have peace of mind knowing that your home is safe while traveling abroad, but also enjoy a stress-free vacation knowing everything at home is taken care of!