We could all use a summer getaway. While leaving town for a getaway can be refreshing, it can also be worrisome. With no one in your home from day to day, what is to keep someone from breaking in? Thankfully, there are many ways that you can have peace of mind, even if you aren’t able to check on your home yourself. Below, we’ve listed several tips that will help keep burglars away when you’re out on your next vacation.
Pause mail and newspaper delivery: Few things show that you’re away like a mailbox full of letters or a driveway buried beneath a pile of your local newspapers. Instead of allowing delivery of services to continue, call your local post office and have your service paused. You may also be able to fill out a request online. No matter how long or short your vacation, this is an excellent way to protect your home.
Set light timers: At your local hardware store, you can find various kinds of light timers. Invest in a few of these and install them to work with different lights in your home, such as your front porch, living room, or bedrooms. Wiring these timers is quite simple and they will go a long way in making both neighbours and strangers think that someone is home, even when you aren’t.
Inquire about a neighbourhood safety programme: It’s possible that local police or a local group of neighbours has a neighbourhood drive-by safety programme. This would mean that someone would check on your home at least once a day while you are gone. Check with your local police department or inquire at your next neighbourhood council meeting.
Speak to your neighbours: Many people don’t know their neighbours–consider introducing yourself! Even if you’re not comfortable with a neighbour watching your house, it’s important that they get to know you and your family members. Good neighbours can be protective of one another and they’re usually among the first to call 9-1-1 when something seems amiss.
Hire a lawn service: Summer can make lawn growth unpredictable. A sure sign of a vacant house is really, really long grass. Instead of leaving your grass until you return, consider hiring a lawn service to take care of lawn maintenance while you’re away. It’s an inexpensive way to ensure that your home appears occupied.
These are just a few of the excellent ways you can keep burglars at bay the next time you leave for vacation. Don’t forget to keep your social media quiet when you plan on being away, especially if your profile is public.