Home Security Tips for Vacation
Spring break is coming up for homeowners! For anyone going out of town for an extended period, it’s time to think about how to keep the house secure. Fortunately, there’s plenty to do to make sure your home isn’t a target. According to the FBI, crime rates rise with the temperatures; more people spend time outside, out of town, or away from their homes. To protect yourself and your family, check out our home security guide here:
Interior Home Security Tips
There are a few things to do before heading out on vacation to ensure the safety of your property and belongings.
1. Lock Everything Before Leaving
This tip may seem like an obvious one, but many homeowners forget to lock the back door or the windows when they leave their homes for vacation. If homeowners need extra peace of mind, many home security systems offer glass break sensors for burglars unthwarted by locked windows.
2. Alert Your Alarm Company
If you and your family are leaving home for an extended period, it’s a good idea to call your alarm company. Ensure that your representative knows how long you will be away and make sure the alarm is set correctly.
3. Set Interior Lights on a Timer
Most burglaries are crimes of opportunity. Ensuring that your home doesn’t look unoccupied goes a long way toward deterring potential break-ins. Set the lights inside on timers so that it appears someone is home in the evenings.
4. Don’t Advertise Your Vacation on Social Media
Wait until you get home to post those photos online. Advertising that you and your family are away from home is never a good idea, even if all of your social media profiles are set to private.
5. Secure All Valuables and Firearms
If your family’s valuables and firearms aren’t already secured in a safe deposit box or home safe, now’s the time to do so. Contact a professional at Metro Lock & Safe to explore your options. Depending on what needs storing, there are a variety of home safes available to meet your needs. Explore the catalog here.
6. Clear Out The Mailbox
Contact the post office and put your mail on hold for the week. Mail piling up in the mailbox is a clear indication to would-be criminals that no one’s home.
7. Set The Thermostat
Make sure to set the thermostat to lower your utility bills while you’re away. Also, if there’s a possibility of cold weather, make sure to set the thermostat at least 55 degrees to protect the plumbing.
8. Unplug Electronics
In case of a power surge, it’s smart to disconnect electronics such as TVs, computers, and stereos to protect them. Alternatively, ensure that your electronics are plugged into a surge protector.
Exterior Home Security Tips
The external appearance of the home can be an excellent deterrent for would-be burglars. If your house appears as though someone is home and taking care of things like the lawn and bringing in the newspaper, you’re less likely to be the victim of a break-in.
1. Hire a Landscaper
If you plan to be gone for a while, make sure to hire a neighbor or local landscaping service to keep up with the lawn. An overgrown lawn is another sign to opportunists that no one’s home.
2. Set Exterior Lights on Timers
If you haven’t already invested in exterior lights on timers or motion sensors, now’s the time. Again, most home burglaries are crimes of opportunity. If a burglar believes neighbors will see them, they’re less likely to attempt a break-in.
3. Do Not Leave Spare Keys Outside
Make sure that any spare keys hidden around the exterior of your home are removed before your vacation. Keep in mind that burglars are aware of popular hiding spots, such as fake rocks and potted plants.
4. Lock the Garage
Even if the garage isn’t attached to the house, there’s still a chance of a break-in. Make sure to secure the garage door and any other entry points.
Safety Tips for Your Vacation
Now that your home is secure, make the most of your upcoming vacation! Remember the following safety tips:
1. Sunscreen
Make sure to dress for the weather and wear sunscreen or UV-blocking clothing to avoid skin damage.
2. Stay Hydrated
Vacation is certainly an appropriate time to indulge. However, make sure to drink water in addition to any caffeinated, sugary, or alcoholic beverages.
3. Water Safety
If your vacation takes you and your family to the sea, make sure to wear life jackets. Keep in mind that swimming in a natural body of water such as the ocean or a river is much different than swimming in a pool. For example, if swimming in the ocean, beware of rip currents. Rip currents are narrow bands of water that move quickly away from the shore. If caught in a rip current, swimmers can end up in deep water before they know it. Keep children away from the water without close supervision (within an arm’s reach).
4. Plan Ahead
If traveling to an unfamiliar area, make sure to take time and note landmarks in case anyone gets lost. Make a plan with the family to reunite in case of separation, and make sure all children know how to get into contact with law enforcement or a loved one.
How Can Metro Lock & Safe Help?
If you’re looking to improve your home’s security, the talented team at Metro Lock & Safe is here to help. Serving the entire Phoenix metro area, Metro Lock & Safe is a 24-hour locksmith and security company. If you need a new alarm system, call us at Metro Lock & Safe. We provide free on-site quotes without trip charges. Call now to get started!