Heading away on a holiday this summer, make sure that you take precautions to secure your home before you leave. A little extra vigilance will help keep your property and belongings safer while you’re gone.
Make Your Home Look Lived In
An occupied home looks lived in. Lights go on and off, cars come and go. When you’re away, everything stops. To help create the illusion that your residence is still occupied, invest in timers that automatically turn on the selected interior lights for a few hours every evening.
Try to get a neighbour, friend or family member to take out your bins and put them back after pickup, as it’s another way to send the message that everything is proceeding normally at your house.
Also get them to remove the post from the letterbox. If not, place a no junk mail sign on your letterbox, as this will discourage any large buildup of unwanted mail.
Move car keys out of sight.
Ensure All Doors and Windows Are Locked
Obvious to us all, but it is crucial that you lock up your home before leaving for a holiday. Before leaving check that all external doors and windows are closed and locked, on both upper and lower levels.
Locking all internal doors is also beneficial. This will slow down intruders in the event of a break in as well as helping minimise the spread of a fire if one was to occur.
Don’t Broadcast Your Departure
Being aware of who’s around when you discuss your trip in restaurants and even at work. Make sure that your children are discreet, too.
Do not broadcast it on social media of your departure, as it’s updating both friends and strangers. The less information you put out there, the less likely it is to reach the wrong ears and eyes.
Pull the Plug on Electronics
Disconnecting the power to some of your electronics, like your desktop computer, coffee pot, and television can save you money while you’re gone and eliminate the worry that you’ve accidentally left them on by mistake.
Turning off your garage door is also an effective way to keep thieves from opening it with a universal remote. Don’t leave laptops and expensive electronic items on view in your house.
Install Added Security Features
Install exterior lights that are motion sensitive or run on timers is a good way to increase security around the house and make your home safer whether you’re around or not.
Having a monitored burglar alarm installed is the best form of security. Before leaving, make sure to inform your monitoring provider of your trip and update your keyholders list. If your Alarm is not monitored contact Top Security for more information.
If you already have a security alarm, before leaving double check that the batteries in your alarms are working.