This post is originally authored at the home security blog at FamilyHomeSecurity.com.

For many people, the main headache when flying involves lost suitcases, checked baggage fees and crowded flights. However, a poll conducted by Newsweek discovered that over 50% of Americans have experienced fear while aboard a plane. Over 35% of Americans have admitted to having an actual fear of flying. If you’re one of these people, boarding a plane can be a stressful and scary experience. Here are a few quick tips to help you to conquer your fear of flying.

Tip #1 – Be Early for Your Flight.
If you’re already anxious about boarding a plane, having to rush to your departure gate can simply increase your anxiety. Help make your airport experience less stressful by arriving at least two hours before your scheduled departure. If you are departing from a particularly busy airport, you may even want to arrive three hours early. This will give you more than enough time to pick up your tickets, check your baggage and get through security.

Tip #2 – Check Out the Airport Lounge.
If you’re already flying business class, you may have access to the airport’s VIP lounge. These lounges are designed to be a comfortable and relaxing environment where passengers can get away from the craziness of the airport. However, if you’re not flying business class, you may have to pay for a pass in order to access the lounge. Some airlines offer a complimentary “first time” pass to the lounge, so be sure to ask at the service counter. Depending on your budget, paying around $50 for a pass to the lounge may be well worth it to help decrease your anxiety.

Tip #3 – Choose an Aisle Seat.
By choosing to sit in a seat near the aisle, you’re less likely to feel claustrophobic while on the plane. An aisle seat also allows you to have greater freedom of movement once the plane has reached a stable altitude. If you can, get a seat that is in one of the “exit rows”, which have the emergency exits out the side of the plane. These seats sometimes have additional leg-room, though you will have the responsibility to help passengers evacuate the plane in the event of an emergency.

Tip #4 – Bring Something Distracting.
Studies have shown that distracting yourself with a situation that involves a significant amount of thought can help to reduce anxiety. Though a book or magazine can be a good distraction, many experts suggest audio distractions as being the most effective. While soothing music can help, you may also want to consider bringing an audiobook. No matter which audio distraction you choose, it’s best to choose something that you are unfamiliar with, such as a new CD or group of songs that you haven’t heard yet.

Tip #5 – Be Prepared.
While dealing with the fear of flying, the last thing you want to be worried about is being tired, hungry or uncomfortable. Plan ahead for your flight. Wear comfortable clothes that are loose-fitting, and shoes that are easy to remove. If you are meeting someone important following your flight, you can always change while at the airport. Bring several snacks, in case you don’t find the airplane food particularly appetizing. If you plan to sleep on the plane, bring a small travel pillow and a blanket. If you plan to sleep on a day flight, a soft eye mask can help to block out any excess light.

Tip #6 – Try to Relax.
Every time you feel yourself becoming anxious about flying, remember that the actual chance of your plane experiencing problems during flight is extremely low. In reality, the chance of dying on a commercial airline crash is about 10,500,000 to 1! Airline pilots undergo extensive training, which even involves flying a plane that has one (or both) of its engines disabled.

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2. How to Stay Comfortable on Long Flights This post is originally authored at the home security blog...

This post is originally authored at the home security blog at FamilyHomeSecurity.com.

Ever since the Wright brothers had the first successful airplane flight in 1903, the aviation industry has been rapidly expanding. During both World War I and World War II, specialized aircraft were developed in order to enhance the army’s combat potential. In fact, the years 1918 – 1939 are revered as being the “Golden Age” of aviation. Though airplane flights were once a luxury reserved only for wealthy individuals, air travel now represents a significant percentage of the transportation industry. Each year, the aviation industry experiences an average of 5% growth, as air travel becomes both more accessible and more affordable.

This summer, thousands of people will board planes to fly off to their dream vacation locales. On extended flights, its easy to have a negative experience. To help make long flights more bearable, here are a few tips to help make you more comfortable.

Choose Your Seats.
When you purchase an airplane ticket, you usually have the option to select your seats. If you prefer an aisle or a window seat, be sure to switch your seat accordingly. If you want a bit of extra leg room, you can choose a seat near one of the emergency exits. However, if you sit in one of these seats, you will be responsible for helping passengers exit the plane in the event of an emergency.

Bring Your Own Drink.
Due to the recent security restrictions, full bottles of beverages are not permitted to be brought past security. However, you can bring an empty bottle, which you can fill in one of the airport’s bathrooms prior to boarding the plane. You can also usually purchase drinks at one of the convenience stores located within the terminal.

Pack Lotion and Chapstick.
Something many people don’t realize, is that the air on a plane can be extremely dry due to the air filtration system. To help you to be more comfortable, don’t forget to bring products to help deal with dry skin. Though these may seem like small items, they will help you to better deal with long flights.

Choose Your Plane.
If you are able, try to choose a plane that has an entertainment system built-in to the seat. These systems may offer certain TV shows, network channels, or pay-per-view movies. On long flights, this can be extremely helpful for dealing with travel fatigue.

Bring Headphones.
Though many airplanes offer headphones for purchase on the plane, they are usually low-quality, and may cause headaches in sensitive individuals. To prevent this, bring some noise-cancelling headphones in your carry-on luggage.

Pack Light.
For your carry-on luggage, try to pack light. Attempting to yank an overstuffed bag out of an overhead bin will add to the stress of your flight.

Bring Toiletries.
Riding on an extended flight can take its toll on your overall personal hygiene. To help increase your comfort level, bring a few toiletries in your carry-on. This can include a cleansing facial scrub, mouthwash, and a toothbrush. If you start to feel uncomfortable, take a quick trip to the bathroom to freshen up.

Bring Your Own Food.
Airplane food is notorious for being bland and unappetizing. In addition to this, it’s often extremely expensive! To keep yourself comfortable (and save money), bring your own food onto the plane. This may include a sandwich, some fresh fruit, a granola bar, or other food items. Just remember not to pack food in liquid form (such as yogurt), since it may be confiscated by security.

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This post is originally authored at the home security blog at FamilyHomeSecurity.com.

Clare Oliver was a typical 19-year old girl, who enjoyed going to the beach and shopping with her friends. However, when she saw an advertisement – “Pay for 10 tanning sessions, and get 10 free!” her interest was piqued. Clare purchased the tanning package, and began going to tan at her local salon. The tanning attendant told her that the best way to get tan quickly, was to come in every other day, and use “speed cream”. Clare took her advice, and made it through 10 tanning sessions. However, after her 10th session, Clare’s skin began to hurt, and she decided to stop tanning.

Clare went on to receive a Bachelor of Media and Communication, as well as a Masters of Cinema from the University of Melbourne by the time she was 22. She began work as a sports journalist, and had many career plans for her future. However, when she discovered a lump under her armpit, she was frightened enough to go to the doctor. Though the lump vanished with treatment, it returned one year later. Clare eventually discovered that she had seven tumors in her chest, one in her neck, and one in her lung. After being positively diagnosed for melanoma, Clare eventually stopped responding to treatments. She lived until she was 26, and become one of the strongest advocates for putting strict restrictions on the use of tanning facilities by young girls.

Many people don’t realize the true dangers of exposing their skin to UV rays, either from a tanning salon or from spending time outdoors. To be able to safely enjoy your summer, you need to know why sunscreen is important, and how it functions to protect your health.

The Two Types of UV Rays

Sun damage to the skin is caused both by UVA and UVB rays. The damage by UVB rays is almost immediate, taking place within 60 seconds of exposure of unprotected skin. UVA rays also contribute to skin damage, being one of the contributing factors for developing premature wrinkles.

What does SPF Mean?

SPF stands for “Sun Protection Factor”. Currently, SPF ratings are only designed to rate a sunscreen’s protection against UVB sun rays, as there is currently no rating system for protection against UVA rays.

The Difference Between Sunscreen and Sunblock

When you see a product advertised as “Sunblock”, this means that it operates as a “shield” to reflect the sun’s rays away from your skin. Sunblock products usually contain titanium dioxide. A sunscreen product functions to soak up UV rays before they are able to damage your skin. Sunscreen products usually contain PABA and Salicylates. However, some sun products contain both sunscreen and sunblock ingredients.

Broad Spectrum Sun Products

In order to protect against both UVA and UVB rays, it’s recommended that you choose a sunscreen that is labeled as “Broad Spectrum”.

Premature Aging

Exposure to UV rays is the number one cause of premature aging, wrinkling and skin damage. Though having a tan may be socially desirable, it’s important to remember that a tan represents damage to your skin by the sun.

Sunscreen Effectiveness

The protection you gain from sunscreen is only effective if you apply it properly. At a minimum, you should re-apply your sunscreen after being out in the sun for approximately three hours. If you’re swimming, remember to reapply your suncreen after one hour, even if your sunscreen is “waterproof”. Make sure that you cover all exposed skin with a layer of sunscreen, in order to maximize your protection.

This post is originally authored at the home security blog at FamilyHomeSecurity.com.

The 2010 eruption of the Eyjafjallajokull volcano in Iceland has already caused the cancellation of over 17,000 flights, disrupting air travel all over the world. Thousands of people were stuck at the airport, missing their business meetings, weddings, family reunions and other events. Many people are saying that such a widespread flight disruption hasn’t occurred since the terrorist attacks on 9/11. If you have ever been in a situation where your flight has been cancelled, you are already aware of the anger, frustration and chaos that can occur. Here are a few simple tips to reduce the stress of a cancelled flight.

Step 1 – Take a Deep Breath.
Many people can feel panicked, stressed, angry or scared when they realize that their flight has been cancelled. These feelings are natural, though they are not productive to solving your problem. Understand that the airline is not purposefully disrupting your plans, or trying to prevent you from reaching your destination. Once you are calm, you will have a much easier time solving your situation.

Step 2 – Get in Line.
After a flight cancellation, you will most likely be directed to a service kiosk. Since all of the other passengers in your flight will also need to get in line, be prepared for a long wait.

Step 3 – Call Your Airline.
While you’re waiting in line, it’s highly recommended that you call the 800 number for the airline your flight was on. This can have a huge imact on reducing the amount of time that you need to spend dealing with your cancelled flight. This number should be printed on your tickets, or can be accessed by navigating to the airline’s website on your mobile phone.

Step 4 – Prepare Your Personal Information.
While on the phone with your airline, be prepared to describe details about your situation. You may be asked for:

• Your name
• Your flight number
• The method of payment for your tickets
• Your destination
• Personal details (social security number, date of birth, etc)

Be sure that you have all of this information easily available before calling the customer service number.

Step 5 – Be Polite.
By the time you make it to the customer service kiosk, the agents will most likely be tired of irate, frustrated and angry customers. Be polite, stating your situation clearly and without insinuating that you hold the airline at fault. Never yell, swear or accuse the customer service associate of not providing you with proper service. If you are polite, it’s much more likely that they will be motivated to help you to find a solution to your cancelled flight.

Step 6 – Be Informed.
In some cases, the information that you receive by calling your airline’s 800 number may be different than the information given to you at the customer service kiosk. If this occurs, you may be able to find a solution by presenting this information. For example, if the representative on the phone says that there is an earlier flight that you may take, you can give this information to the representative at the kiosk. Be sure to include details such as the flight number, time of the flight, airline (if different), gate number and any other relevant details.

Step 7 – Be Clear About Your Arrangements.
In the event of a cancelled flight, there may be several arrangements offered to you by your airline. This may include:

• Complimentary Food
• Complimentary Hotel
• Voucher for a Future Flight
• Free Seat Upgrade for New Flight
• Coupon for Money Off a Future Flight
• Complimentary Transportation

Depending on the reason for your flight’s cancellation, there may be a wait of several hours (or days) until you are able to get a new flight. If this occurs, the airline may offer you a complimentary hotel, a voucher for purchasing food, and free transportation from the airport to the hotel. Be sure that you know the exact details of any arrangements that they make for you – such as the address of the hotel, the location where your transportation is leaving, and the exact time of your rescheduled flight (if any).

Step 8 – Reschedule Your Plans.
You should only reschedule your plans after you are completely clear about the new arrangements given to you by your airline (unless, of course, you choose an alternate course of action, such as renting a car to drive to your destination). Reschedule your business meeting, call your family, or any other person who will be affected by your delay.

This post is originally authored at the home security blog at FamilyHomeSecurity.com.

On Christmas Day in 2009, a terrorist attempted to blow up Northwest Airlines Flight 253, with plastic explosives that were sewn into his pants. Dubbed the “Underwear Bomber”, this incident sparked a flurry of activity for the TSA (Transportation Security Administration). Measures were taken to tighten security, in order to avoid having any other explosives ever make it past security checkpoints. One of the security measures that has recently been subject to a lot of controversy, is the “Full Body Scanners” that have begun to make their way into airports.

What is a Full Body Scanner?

A full body scanner is a device that is able to detect items hidden under clothing. The scanner does this by creating a full 3-D image of a person, complete with detailed body contours. The scanners are effective at detecting contraband that may be hidden on a person’s body.

How Does a Full Body Scanner Work?

There are currently two different types of scanning technology that are used in full body scanners: millimeter wave scanners, and backscatter scanners. A millimeter wave scanner is able to use radio waves that are of extremely high frequencies, which are decoded in order to produce a 3-D image. A backscatter scanner makes use of high-energy rays that scatter when they hit solid materials. This allows a backscatter scanner to create a detailed image of the person being scanned.

An example of one type of Full Body Scanner.

Do Full Body Scanners Take Nude Pictures?

A full body scanner is able to strip away any items of clothing that a person is wearing, essentially producing a nude representation of a person. This allows the person screening the scans to see details that could represent concealed objects. However, it is true that the full body scanner does produce a “naked” representation of airline passengers, which is why full body scanners are subject to so much controversy.

Which Airports Have Full Body Scanners?

Currently, there are 40 active full body scanners at 19 different airports.

Albuquerque International Airport (ABQ)
Atlanta Hartsfield-Jackson Airport (ATL)
Baltimore-Washington International (BWI)
Dallas/Ft. Worth Airport (DFW)
Denver International Airport (DEN)
Detroit Metro Wayne County Airport (DTW)
Indianapolis International Airport (IND)
Jacksonville International Airport (JAX)
Las Vegas-McCarran Airport (LAS)
Los Angeles International Airport (LAX)
Miami International Airport (MIA)
Phoenix Sky Harbor (PHX)
Raleigh-Durham International Airport (RDU)
Richmond International Airport (RIC)
Salt Lake City International Airport (SLC)
San Francisco International Airport (SFO)
Tampa International Airport (TPA)
Tulsa International Airport (TUL)
Washington DC’s Reagan National (DCA)
Amsterdam-Schipol Airport (AMS)

However, there are 11 more airports that are currently in the process of receiving them. This list includes:

Boston Logan International Airport
Chicago O’Hare International Airport
Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood International Airport
Cincinnati/Northern Kentucky International Airport
Mineta San Jose International Airport
Los Angeles International Airport
Port Columbus Unternational Airport
Oakland International Airport
San Diego International Airport
Kansas City International Airport
Charlotte Douglas International Airport

By the end of this year, the TSA hopes to have over 450 full body scanners active in airports across the United States. By 2011, the TSA projects that over 1200 full body scanners will be used.

Are Full Body Scans Required?

Under the current airport security protocols, you have the right to refuse a full body scan when boarding a plane. In the event that you refuse, you will be taken to another location in which you may receive a pat-down, a scan with a hand-scanner, swabs that can detect explosives, and other tests.

Are Full Body Scanners Open to Abuse?

Much of the controversy about full body scanners centers around the fact that yes, it is possible for the data images taken by the scanners to be abused. Concern has particularly been focused on the potential for abuse in images of celebrities, children and women. The TSA has attempted to assuage these fears by pledging that the images are deleted after the scan, and will never be used elsewhere. However, many people still feel uncomfortable with the possibility that these scan photos represent a breach in privacy.

Sources:

http://www.mirror.co.uk/news/top-stories/2009/12/29/full-body-scanners-in-all-our-airports-115875-21928634/

http://www.cnn.com/2009/TRAVEL/12/30/airline.terror.scanners/index.html

http://www.cnn.com/2010/TRAVEL/03/05/body.scanners.airports/index.html

http://www.jaunted.com/story/2010/1/6/165831/7563/travel/Full-Body+Scanners+101:+How+Naked+Is+Full-Body+Scan+Naked%3F

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Underwear_bomber

http://ivarfjeld.files.wordpress.com/2009/06/airport-security-line.jpg

This post is originally authored at the home security blog at FamilyHomeSecurity.com.

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“.

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This post is originally authored at the home security blog at FamilyHomeSecurity.com.

Airplane travel is a wonderful advancement in the world of transportation, allowing us to travel to visit distant friends and family in a matter of hours. However, flying on a plane may seem to be a frightening experience, especially if you are a first-time flyer. To help increase your level of safety while flying, there are  a few simple tips you may follow to make your flying experience much safer.

1. Always Keep Your Seat Belt Fastened.
When on board an aircraft, even light turbulence can cause injuries. In order to avoid being injured due to turbulence or other emergencies, it’s highly recommended that you keep your seatbelt fastened at all times. If you must leave your seat, try to return as soon as possible. Many turbulence-related injuries occur when passengers are out of their seats.

2. Listen to the Safety Instructions.
Even if you are a frequent flyer, it’s still highly recommended that you pay close attention to the safety briefing at the beginning of your flight. In the event of an emergency, knowing where the closest exit is just might save your life. In addition to this, the safety features on each aircraft may be slightly different. By having a general knowledge of the safety features of your plane, you will be able to increase your chances of survival in an emergency.

3. Overcome Your Fear of Flying.
In reality, your odds of dying in a single plane flight are 1 in 7.35 million, as an average of the best and worst airlines. [1] With this in mind, try to overcome the natural fear that many people experience during a flight, or during periods of unexpected turbulence. By staying calm, you will be able to act much more effectively in the case of a real emergency.

4. Report Suspicious Behavior.
While it is not recommended that you become paranoid about the other passengers on your plane, it’s still important to be aware of their behavior. If you see another passenger acting strangely, in a manner that makes you suspicious of their actions, alert a flight attendant immediately. If your suspicions are validated, the pilot will be notified, and appropriate action will be taken by the flight crew.

5. Follow the Instructions of the Flight Crew.
Even if the requests by the flight attendants seem irrational, it’s essential that you follow their instructions. For example, many airplanes have a rule that prohibits cell phones from being used for the duration of most flights. Certain cell phone signals are thought to disrupt the navigational equipment on the plane, causing aeronautical issues. Even if this seems to be unreasonable, it’s best to obey all rules on your aircraft without question.

Source:
[1] http://www.planecrashinfo.com/cause.htm

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This post is originally authored at the home security blog at FamilyHomeSecurity.com.

Going away on vacation is supposed to be a time to rest, relax and get away from the stress of your daily routine. However, during your vacation, it is possible that you have left your home vulnerable to criminals. Many burglars will take advantage of families that have left their homes deserted during vacations. In addition to this, there is also the slight chance that a fire, flood or other disaster will affect your home in your absence. Worrying about the state of your home can interfere with the relaxation of a vacation. That being said, is it possible to have a feeling of security about your home remaining safe while you are away? Luckily, there are many things that you can do to help secure your home while you are on vacation.

Vacation Home Security Tip #1 – Unplug Your Appliances
Though this may seem like a relatively minor precautionary measure, it is very important to make sure that all electrical appliances in your home are disconnected from the electrical sockets. Even if you have a surge protector, it’s still possible that a faulty appliance could possibly start a fire in your home. Before you leave, walk through the rooms of your house to ensure that all electrical appliances are unplugged.

Vacation Home Security Tip #2 – Arm Your Security System
If you have a home security system installed, you have already taken a very important step towards keeping your home safe in your absence. However, don’t forget to arm the system! Failing to arm a home security system is a more common mistake than you might think. To help you remember, write a reminder post-it note and stick it to the door which you will use to exit the house.

Vacation Home Security Tip #3 – Install  Home Surveillance
If your budget allows, installing a video surveillance system inside your home can provide you with constant monitoring of the state of your home. However, if you have a tight budget, it is still possible to monitor your home if you have a bit of technical know-how. Using a conventional USB webcam, you can connect it to your home PC as a security camera, as long as your PC is constantly connected to the internet. By using an application such as pcAnywhere, you can connect to your home PC while on vacation by using a laptop. This is a great and easy way to monitor your home if you don’t have the extra money for a professional video surveillance system.

Vacation Home Security Tip #4 – Secure Your Home
Before you leave, there are many “common sense” procedures you need to follow in order to make sure that your home is secure. This includes:

• Lock all doors, windows and other entry points.
• Turn off the ringer on your telephone.
• Activate any security or motion sensing light systems.
• Mow your lawn, trim your hedges or schedule for your driveway to be plowed in your absence.
• Leave your spare house keys with a trusted friend or family member.

These are just a few of the items that you should have on your “Vacation Safety Checklist”. As long as you are thorough in following all of these guidelines, you can rest assured that your home will be safe and secure during your vacation.

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This post is originally authored at the home security blog at FamilyHomeSecurity.com.

Winter is a season full of turkey dinners, family visits and Christmas shopping. During the holiday months, thousands of people will be going on vacations to visit friends and family. However, the holiday season is often an opportunity for burglars to take advantage of homes that have been left unguarded while their residents are on vacation. To ensure that you are able to enjoy your holiday festivities, it’s important if you take precautions that your home will be protected. Here is a simple checklist that you can use to ensure that your home is at a lower risk for a fire, break-in or other catastrophic event.

1. Did You Set Your Light Timers?
Since many burglars take advantage of homes that appear to be deserted, it’s highly recommended that you set your interior lights on light timers. These timers are relatively inexpensive, and are available at most department stores.

2. Are Your Security Lights Active?
Having motion-sensing security lights can be a great way to deter burglars from entering your home. Be sure to install your security lights around all entry points into your home.

3. Is Your Security System Armed?
Before you leave on vacation, don’t forget to arm your security system! Some home security companies will offer a feature that allows you to view 24/7 surveillance of your home, either by phone or over the computer. With this tool, you will be able to relax and enjoy your vacation.

4. Did You Disconnect Your Telephone?
A constantly ringing telephone inside your home can be a signal to burglars that your home is unoccupied. It’s highly recommended that you turn off the ringer for your phones while you are on vacation, or disconnect the phones entirely. Don’t forget – Never leave a voicemail message indicating that you are away on vacation!

5. Did You Hide Your Spare Keys?
If you choose to hide your spare key while on vacation, try to avoid hiding it in an area where burglars will know to look. It’s not recommended for you to hide your spare key under your doormat, in your mailbox, over your door frame, or in nearby flowerpots. Instead, try leaving your spare key with a trusted neighbor, friend or family member.

6. Did You Lock All Doors and Windows?
While this may seem like common sense, it’s always good to double-check if your doors and windows are locked before leaving your home. Right before you leave, do a last-minute check of all of your doors and windows, testing them to ensure that they are securely closed.

7. Is Your Garage Secure?
A substantial number of home burglaries are performed from a garage entry point. This is because many people fail to realize how vulnerable their garage is to burglars. If you don’t have a sturdy garage door, be sure to install bright security lights around all areas of your garage. In addition to this, it’s important not to neglect monitoring of your garage when installing a home security system.

8. Did You Suspend Newspaper Deliveries?
A pile of delivered newspapers outside your home can be a telltale sign to burglars that you are not at home. Most newspaper companies will be able to suspend deliveries upon request, as long as you give them advance notice.

9. Did You Hide Your Valuables?
While on vacation, having your valuables securely hidden can help you to rest assured that they are safe from burglars. It’s best if you have a hidden wall safe, where you can store all of your valuable items and documents securely. However, if you do not have a wall safe, you can always hide your valuables in shoeboxes on top of closets, in cabinets, behind canned food, and in other places that a burglar may not think to look. If you have any firearms in your home, be sure that they are in a secure location.

10. Are Your Curtains and Blinds Closed?
If you keep your curtains and blinds closed, there is a higher likelihood that a burglar will not be able to easily tell that you are not at home. In addition to this, it prevents a prospective crook from being able to survey your home for any objects of value.

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This post is originally authored at the home security blog at FamilyHomeSecurity.com.

Preparing for vacations can be a hectic time. You go over your checklist again and again – passport, tickets, toothbrush, underwear. When you leave, you hopefully have everything you’ll need for your trip. Before you leave though, be sure your home is ready for you to be gone. Your vacation time is also the perfect time for a burglar to break into your house.

First, don’t announce to the world that you’ll be gone. Changing your status on Facebook or Twitter to “I’ll be partying in the Caribbean for the next week” may be tempting. You’d get jealous remarks from friends, but you’d also be telling everyone that your house will be deserted for an entire week – the perfect time for a burglar to drop by your house. Also, incase a burglar calls your phone to see if you’re home, don’t put on your answering machine that you’ll be out of town.

Second, clean up outside your home. Mow the lawn, trim the trees, and water your flowers. If the yard is well cared for, it will look like someone is at home. A tall lawn will signal a burglar that no one has been home for awhile. Also, arrange to have your mail held at the Post Office or have someone pick it up for you. A stack of mail and newspapers is also a signal to burglars that no one is home and might not be for some time. In addition, this will keep important mail like paychecks and bank statements safe.

Another way to keep your home safe is to get a house sitter or tell a neighbor/friend that you’ll be out of town. Not only can they water your plants and feed your pets, but they can keep an eye on your house as well. Leave phone numbers where your house sitter can reach you.

As you leave, close and lock all windows. Double check to make sure all candles are extinguished and irons and ovens are off. Lastly, lock all doors, and enjoy your vacation!