When the daily stress of life gets overwhelming, going on a vacation can be the perfect remedy. As you book your accommodation and pack your suitcase, you must also take the necessary precautions to keep your home safe and secure while you’re away.
In this article, you’ll get six valuable tips to help protect your home to have peace of mind and enjoy the rest of your trip.
1. Invest In A Home Security System
A well-thought-out home security system is your first line of protection when leaving home for a vacation and even for your daily living. A comprehensive home security system with CCTV cameras, sensors, and alarms allows you to monitor and protect your home remotely effectively. It has the dual function of deterring would-be intruders and alerting the proper authorities in case of an attempt or actual break-in. Thus, hire a reliable home security company to design and install a well-rounded security system. Consider their track record, and check references to see what previous customers have to say about the quality of their work. In addition, some companies may also provide extra security services, such as monitored home security while you’re away. This is particularly suitable if you’re going somewhere with poor internet access, preventing you from watching your home remotely.
2. Get A Lighting Timer
Lighting is one of the most common indicators that a home is empty. So, if you plan to go away for days or weeks, setting the lights to turn on and off at specific times can make it look like you’re home without significantly increasing your energy consumption. In this case, you can set up a light timer to turn on and off lights at predetermined intervals, simulating your presence in the house when you’re not there. Be sure to use several timers in various rooms and levels to give the impression that someone is occupying your home.
3. Ask Someone You Trust To Check In On Your Home
One of the smartest moves you can make if you’re leaving home for a few days is to ask a relative, friend, or neighbor to come by and check up on your home now and then. This brings presence and motion to your home while ensuring everything is fine. You can even ask that person to stay in your home until you get back. Please note that if you choose this option, you should only ask someone you fully trust. Before leaving, you should meet with that person and hand them the keys to your home.
4. Hire A House Sitter
If no relatives or close friends can watch or stay in your home for a few days, consider hiring a reputable house sitter. House-sitting is a thriving industry and allows you to hire professional services to occupy your home while you’re away. Most professional house-sitting services also cover everyday housekeeping duties such as watering the plants, gardening, cleaning your home, and taking out the trash. However, if you do opt for a professional house sitter, take the time to research the company. After all, you’re letting a stranger in your home. Use an agency vetted by someone you trust or who has a good reputation online. Also, ask for their license and insurance, ensuring you’re protected against any liabilities or damages that may occur in your home.
5. Hold The Mail Deliveries
A full mailbox and piles of newspapers indicate no one is home, providing a prime target for burglars. As such, ask someone to collect your mail and newspapers while you’re away. Otherwise, you can temporarily contact the service provider and make the necessary arrangements to hold the delivery of newspaper and mail.
6. Be Mindful About Social Media Shares
Sharing a photo or video of your vacation on social media can be tempting. But before you post a stunning photo of you lounging on a secluded beach with crystal clear, blue waters and making your social friends jealous, think about how it can impact your home security. Advertising your vacations online can reveal to potential thieves that your home is empty, thus increasing the risks of break-ins. So, to keep criminals at bay, resist sharing any details of your trip until you’re home. If that’s impossible, consider tweaking your sharing options to ‘Friends Only’ and removing geotagging features.
Takeaway
Taking a much-needed vacation is always a thrilling experience. Yet, it would be best to leave your house with proper security measures. If you want to get the most out of your trip and have peace of mind knowing that your home is secure while you’re away, follow the abovementioned safety measures.
