Heading off on a vacation offers a much-needed break from the daily grind. While it’s exciting to take some time off, leaving your home empty can also stir up concerns. With more than a million burglaries reported annually in the U.S., it’s crucial to take steps to safeguard your property while you enjoy your getaway. Proper planning can bring you peace of mind, knowing your home is secure even when you’re away.
Here’s a guide on how to prepare your home before traveling so you can relax, without worrying about what’s happening at home.
Questions to Consider Before Leaving
Before embarking on your vacation, ensure everything is in order. Asking yourself a few key questions can help you take the right steps to secure your home:
- How Long Will I Be Gone?
The duration of your absence plays a big role in the level of security required. A longer trip means your home is more likely to be noticed, so take extra precautions. - Has My Neighborhood Experienced Burglary Before?
If there have been break-ins in your area, criminals may target the same spots. If many people in your neighborhood are traveling at the same time, it may draw unwanted attention. Increase your home security measures if your area has a history of crime. - Do I Have Good Relationships With My Neighbors?
If you have trustworthy neighbors, they can keep an eye on your property while you’re away. Let them know when you’ll be gone and provide contact details for emergency situations. - Is My Home Insurance Current?
Before you leave, check that your homeowners insurance is up to date. Inform your insurer about your absence and ask whether you need additional coverage while you’re away.
External Preparations
The exterior of your house is the first line of defense. To prevent burglars from targeting your home, make it appear occupied and well-maintained:
- Maintain Your Yard
A well-kept lawn and garden make it less obvious that no one’s home. If you’re leaving for an extended trip, arrange for someone to mow the lawn or shovel the driveway if necessary. - Pause Mail and Deliveries
Have your mail held at the post office and cancel any newspaper subscriptions. If packages are delivered while you’re away, ask a neighbor to collect them for you. - Secure Spare Keys
Avoid leaving spare keys in obvious places like under the doormat. Instead, store them with a friend or relative. - Install Timed Lighting
A dark home signals that no one is around. Use timers for your lights to simulate occupancy. Smart lights can also be a great option, allowing you to control them remotely. - Ask Someone to Check In
Whether it’s a neighbor or friend, have someone visit your home while you’re away. They can look for suspicious activity and help keep things in order. - Lock Away Tools and Ladders
Keep any ladders, tools, or other items that burglars could use to access upper floors securely locked away. - Leave a Car in the Driveway
A parked car can create the illusion that someone is home. If you’re taking your car with you, consider asking a neighbor to park theirs in your driveway. - Remove GPS Devices
Don’t leave your GPS or other navigation devices in your vehicle, as thieves could use them to find your home. - Upgrade Your Security System
A reliable security system with door/window sensors and remote monitoring can provide extra protection. Be sure your system is active and properly set up before leaving. - Manage Trash Collection
Arrange for someone to take out your trash while you’re gone to avoid piles of mail or trash that signal your absence. - Double-Check Locks
Before leaving, make sure all doors, windows, and garage doors are securely locked.
Interior Preparations
The inside of your home also needs attention to deter intruders and prevent unexpected damages:
- Avoid Social Media Posts
It’s tempting to share your vacation excitement on social media, but announcing your absence can alert potential burglars. Wait until you return before posting pictures or updates. - Set Timers for Indoor Lights
A constantly lit house may seem suspicious, and so can a completely dark one. Use timers for interior lights to make your home look inhabited without the risk of a fire hazard. - Secure Valuables
Take the time to lock up or hide valuables like electronics, jewelry, and important documents. Make them less accessible to opportunistic burglars by storing them in unexpected places. - Unplug Appliances
Unplugging electronics not only conserves energy but also protects your appliances from power surges during your absence. - Adjust Your Thermostat
Set your thermostat based on the season. In winter, keep it at around 55°F to prevent pipes from freezing. During summer, you can safely turn it off if no one is home. - Clear Out Perishables
Before you leave, make sure to remove any perishable items from the fridge. This avoids unpleasant odors and ensures your home stays fresh. - Notify Your Security Provider
Inform your security company of your absence and ensure that your system is functioning properly. Ask if you can monitor your home via a smartphone app for additional peace of mind. - Protect Your Pipes
To avoid frozen pipes in cold weather, insulate them and check that your thermostat is set to a safe temperature. - Maintain Regular Cleaning Schedules
If you have regular cleaning or maintenance services, coordinate with them to keep up with their schedule. This helps maintain the appearance of an occupied home. - Mind Your Curtains
If you normally adjust your curtains, do so while you’re away. An abrupt change in window coverings may indicate no one’s home. - Install Motion Sensor Lights
Motion-activated lights outside your home can serve as a deterrent to potential burglars by alerting neighbors to any suspicious activity. - Prevent Water and Fire Hazards
Fix any leaks or faulty plumbing before leaving. Turn off water valves if necessary. Also, unplug unnecessary electrical appliances to reduce the risk of fires.
Extra Security Measures
If you want an added layer of security, consider hiring a house sitter. A trusted individual can ensure your home is looked after while you’re away, especially if you have pets.
Taking the time to carefully secure both the interior and exterior of your home will ensure you have a worry-free vacation, knowing your property is safe from potential threats.
