One of the wonderful things about spring (aside from signing the kids up for baseball) is finally getting motivated to plan how to spend your summer when the kids are off from school. With the warmer months just over the horizon, many families use springtime to dream up their ideal family vacation. Exotic beaches, sunny mountain retreats, and exciting theme park adventures are all among the most popular getaways for families. However, amidst all of this excitement, it’s easy to forget to think about maintaining your home’s security while you’re gone. Here are a few quick tips to help to protect your home from potential burglars while you’re enjoying your family vacation.
Know Your Schedule
Before anything else, map out the exact dates and times that you will be away from your home. Allow for airport delays, car trouble, unexpected difficulties and other hazards that may occur on your vacation. Be sure that you have arrangements to take care of your home and your other obligations in case you aren’t able to return on your scheduled date.
Know Your House-Sitter
If you have hired someone to watch your house while you are gone, be sure that it is someone that you know and trust. This may seem like common sense, but it’s important to remember that you are trusting your home to their care. It’s best to never enlist the services of a stranger, even if they come with good references. If you need someone to watch your pets, first try to enlist the help of close friends or family members. If necessary, you can always leave your pets in the expert care of a “pet hotel” or kennel.
Watch Your Social Updates
You may have read our article titled, “I’m Not Home, Please Rob Me!“. Basically, it’s best if you exercise caution when posting your vacation plans on Twitter, Facebook or other social networks. Even if you only befriend people you trust, it’s still important to realize that you are advertising to the world that you won’t be home for a specified amount of time.
Add to Your Security System
If you have a monitored home security system, you have already taken an important step towards ensuring that your home will be protected in your absence. However, taking advantage of the extra features offered by your security company can go a long way towards giving you peace-of-mind. Motion sensors, night-vision security cameras, glass-break sensors and other devices can often be directly integrated into your security system. If you call your security company, be sure to let them know that you’re going on vacation, and that you need these extra features installed by a specific date.
Check Your Locks
All of the entry doors on your first floor should be protected by burglar-proof deadbolt locks. Before going on vacation, schedule a time to have all of your locks tested, in order to ensure that they are in proper working order. If necessary, replace any locks that could potentially compromise your home’s security.
Install a Floor or Wall Safe
Depending on your budget and personal preference, you may want to install a safe in order to hide your valuables in your absence. You can read more in our articles “Installing a Floor Safe” and “Wall Safe Installation Tips“.
Related posts:
- 4 Essential Tips for Vacation Home Security
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