Home Protection: Six Things To Remember Before Leaving On Vacation
You’ve been looking forward to your family vacation all year. But in addition to packing and shopping, it’s important to prepare by protecting your home from burglars while you’re out of town. Read on for six tips from ADT Security Miami to keep your belongings safe, whether you’re out of the country or just out of town.
1. Adjust Blinds and Curtains
A telltale sign that no one’s home is curtains that stay tightly drawn day and night. Instead, adjust blinds slightly to let in daylight, without giving passers-by a full view of your valuables.
2. Have a Trusted Neighbor Keep an Eye Out
Another way that thieves may notice that your home is vacant is piled up mail and newspapers. Consider giving a trusted neighbor a key to bring in your mail, water plants, turn lights on and off, and generally give the place a more lived in feel to deter those who may try to break in. You can also put a temporary “vacation stop” on your mail and newspaper subscription.
3. Use Automatic Timers
These devices can be used to switch lights and electronics on and off, so that the television and lights appear to be in use at normal times of the day. This gives your house a more lived-in look from the outside.
4. Keep It Off Facebook
While it may be tempting to spread your excitement about your trip to family and friends via Facebook and other social networks, it’s not a good idea. Even if your settings are private, there’s still a chance that news of your departure could leak, leaving your home open to an unsavory element.
5. Secure Your Entrances
Obviously, you’ll lock your doors, deadbolts and windows before leaving town. But did you also remember to remove your hidden spare key? And if you use a garage door opener, take it with you. According to ADT Alarm Miami, a thief can easily smash the window of a car left behind and access the home through your garage.
6. Hire a Lawn Service
If you usually mow your own lawn, growth will be noticeable if you’re gone for longer than a week. Hire a lawn service to keep your yard looking fresh even when you’re out of town to keep your home from looking deserted.
By taking these simple precautions, you’ll greatly diminish the chances that your home will be invaded while you’re away, making it easy for you to relax and enjoy your vacation.
