Leaving Town? How to Ensure Your Home Stays Safe and Sound

Before you pack your bags and set off for new adventures, did you know that a large percentage of burglaries occur when occupants are away on vacation or business trips?

The thought alone is enough to unsettle any traveller and ruin any trip. The safety of your home can weigh heavily on your mind, turning what should be an exciting getaway into a stress-filled ordeal.

But fear not! In this article, we’ll dive into practical measures you can take to ensure that while you’re leaving town, your home remains as safe and sound as if you were there watching over it yourself.

With our expert tips and strategies, we aim to provide peace of mind so that the only thing you’ll need to worry about is whether to choose a window or aisle seat.

This guide is for homeowners looking for effective ways to protect their sanctuary even when they’re away. We’re keeping this introduction short enough, so we jump right into the good stuff: safeguarding your haven!

Home Security Assessment

Before you go a vacation, the first thing you should do is assess your home’s security. This will help you identify areas that need improvement way in advance and prepare your home in time for the trip. Here’s how to do a comprehensive home security assessment:

Identify Vulnerable Areas and Weak Points

Start by walking around your property, both inside and outside, with a critical eye.

Look for vulnerabilities such as:

• Unsecured entry points. Check doors, windows, and any access points for weaknesses.
• Inadequate lighting. Identify poorly lit areas that could conceal suspicious activity.
• Overgrown landscaping. Bushes or trees that have grown too large near windows can give burglars a place to hide, so make sure to take care of them.
• Visible valuables. Ensure that expensive items are not visible from the outside.
• Broken or outdated locks. Examine locks on doors and windows for any issues.
• Outdated security systems. Ensure that your current security system is up and running properly and is up to date. In the case they aren’t—get in touch with the security company.

Create a Checklist of Necessary Security Measures

Based on your assessment, create a checklist of security measures to address before your vacation. To ease you, here’s what an example checklist looks like:

1. Reinforce locks on doors and windows.
2. Instal motion-activated outdoor lighting.
3. Trim or remove overgrown bushes and trees.
4. Hide or secure valuable items.
5. Test and update your security system.
6. Repair any damaged fencing or gates.

Even if you’re not going out of town, by systematically addressing these vulnerabilities and implementing necessary security measures, you’ll significantly enhance the protection of your home and even your neighbourhood.

Lighting and Smart Timers

Lighting is an important factor to consider when it comes to keeping your home safe from intruders, so make sure you use lighting to your advantage.

Using Lighting to Create the Illusion of an Occupied Home

A well-lit home gives the impression of occupancy, even when you’re away. Consider the following:

• Use timers or smart plugs to control lights, lamps, and even your TV. Set them to turn on and off at different times to simulate regular activities.
• Instal motion-activated lights near entrances, pathways, and dark corners of your property.
• Consider smart bulbs with vacation modes that mimic typical lighting patterns to make your home appear lived-in.

Smart Timers for Lights and Electronics

Smart technology can be your ally in home security. Invest in smart timers or plugs that allow you to control your lights and electronics remotely via a smartphone app. This way, you can adjust your home’s lighting schedule even while you’re miles away.

Outdoor Lighting for Enhanced Security

Don’t forget about the importance of outdoor lighting. Well-lit exteriors discourage potential intruders from approaching your home. Motion-activated lights near entrances and in the yard can startle anyone trying to sneak around.

Home Security Systems

Investing in a home security system is a substantial step toward protecting your home while you’re away. And you have different options to tackle this problem.

The Advantages of Having a Complete Home Protection System

A home security system offers numerous advantages:

• Deterrence. Visible security cameras and alarm systems provide a strong discouragement against any possible wrongdoing.
• Remote monitoring. Stay connected to your home via smartphone apps, allowing you to check on your property in real-time.
• Emergency response. In case of an intrusion or emergency, professional monitoring services can alert the authorities.
• Peace of mind. Knowing your home is monitored 24/7 provides peace of mind during your vacation.

Professional Monitoring vs. Self-Monitoring Options

When choosing a security system, you’ll need to decide between professional monitoring and self-monitoring:

• Professional monitoring. With this option, a security company watches over your home and notifies the authorities if an alarm is triggered.
• Self-Monitoring. You’ll be responsible for monitoring your system’s alerts and contacting the authorities if needed.

Professional monitoring offers an additional layer of security, especially when you’re away and unable to respond immediately.

Instal Security Cameras for Remote Monitoring

Security cameras are an absolute necessity for any home security setup. Contemporary cameras provide vivid video, night vision, and the ability to be seen remotely. You can observe your home from your phone, making sure everything is secure.

Locks and Entry Points

According to locksmith experts, securing your home’s entry points is fundamental to home security, and, of course, this means all locks need to be in order. Here’s what you should consider:

Reinforce Door and Window Locks

Start by reinforcing the locks on your doors and windows:

• Upgrade to deadbolt locks for exterior doors.
• Instal strike plates with longer screws for added strength.
• Consider smart locks that offer keyless entry and remote access control.
• Reinforce sliding glass door locks with additional security bars or bolts.

Rekey Locks or Upgrade to Smart Locks

If you’re concerned about who may have access to your keys, consider rekeying your locks or upgrading to smart locks. Smart locks allow you to change access codes, ensuring that only trusted individuals have entry.

Secure Sliding Glass Doors and Pet Doors

Sliding glass doors and pet doors can be weak points in your home’s security. Strengthen them with additional locks, bars, or even security film to prevent easy access.

Alarm Systems and Monitoring

A reliable alarm system adds an extra layer of protection to your home. Here’s how to set one up effectively:

Set Up a Reliable Home Alarm System

When installing an alarm system, consider these factors:

1. Choose a reputable security company or DIY system.
2. Ensure that your system covers all entry points.
3. Set up audible alarms both inside and outside your home.
4. Test your system to confirm that it functions correctly.

Choose the Right Sensors and Detectors

Select the appropriate sensors and detectors for your alarm system:

• Window and door sensors. Detect unauthorised entry.
• Motion sensors. Monitor movement inside your home.
• Smoke and carbon monoxide detectors. Protect against fires and gas leaks.
• Water leak sensors. Alert you to potential flooding.

Subscribe to a Professional Monitoring Service

Opting for a professional monitoring service ensures that your alarm system is monitored 24/7. In case of an alarm trigger, the service can quickly despatch the appropriate authorities, providing a swift response to potential threats.

Neighbour and Community Watch

Building strong relationships with your neighbours and engaging in community watch programmes can significantly boost your home security:

Build Strong Relationships with Neighbours

It’s generally a good idea to introduce yourself to those who live nearby and form a connection. When neighbours know each other, they can be more inclined to report any suspicious activity and lend a hand when needed. This is especially important in a community where crime can happen at any time and where you never know who you might need to rely on for support.

Create a Trusted Network for Home Watch

Consider forming a small network of trusted neighbours who can keep an eye on each other’s homes. Share contact information and a basic understanding of each other’s routines to identify anything out of the ordinary.

Have Emergency Contacts and Notifications

Provide trusted contacts with your itinerary, leave emergency contact information, and notify local authorities of your absence.

Engage in Community Watch Programmes

Many communities have organised watch programmes that focus on local safety. Joining such programmes can provide valuable resources and support, making your neighbourhood a safer place.

Mail and Package Handling

Managing your mail and packages is crucial to avoid signalling that your home is vacant:

Prevent an Overflowing Mailbox

An overflowing mailbox is a telltale sign of an unoccupied home, but there are ways to avoid it:

• Temporarily suspend mail delivery through your local postal service.
• Redirect your mail to a trusted friend or neighbour who can collect it for you.

Temporarily Suspend Mail and Package Deliveries

Many postal services offer the option to suspend mail and package deliveries for a specified period. Take advantage of this service to keep your mailbox from becoming a target.

1. Asking a Neighbour to Collect Mail and Packages
2. If you prefer not to suspend deliveries, ask a neighbour to collect your mail and packages. A helpful neighbour can also keep an eye on your property for any signs of trouble.

Social Media Caution

Sharing vacation plans on social media can put your home at risk. Here’s how to stay safe online:

Be Mindful of Sharing Vacation Plans on Social Media

While it’s tempting to share your exciting vacation plans with friends and family, be cautious about broadcasting this information to the public.

Avoid Location Tagging During Your Trip

Refrain from using location tagging features on social media apps while you’re away. Broadcasting your precise location can signal that your home is unoccupied.

Delay Vacation Photo Posts Until After Your Return

Consider waiting until after your vacation to post photos and updates. Sharing your experiences once you’re back home ensures that you don’t inadvertently provide information about your absence.

Conclusion

As we wrap up our comprehensive guide on fortifying your sanctuary against potential threats while you bask in the bliss of vacation, let’s recall the keystones: securing entry points with robust locks and security systems, creating an illusion of presence through smart home automation; enlisting a trustworthy neighbour or friend to keep a watchful eye; and safeguarding your online footprint to prevent digital tipping off.

These strategies are not just actions but investments in peace of mind, ensuring that when you return, your home is just as you left it—safe and serene.

By following these steps and being proactive in your approach to home security, you can enjoy a worry-free vacation while your home remains protected.