Securing your home before a vacation requires a few essential steps to deter potential burglars. Start by installing high-quality deadbolts on all exterior doors, along with window locks for added protection. Utilizing a home security system can provide peace of mind, offering features like surveillance cameras and motion detectors. Involving neighbors by informing them of your absence can help keep an eye on your property, while setting timers for indoor lights can simulate occupancy. Finally, consider safeguarding important documents and valuables in a safe or safety deposit box to protect them from theft.
How To Secure A House For Vacation
Install smart locks
Install smart locks to enhance the security of your home while on vacation. These devices allow you to control access remotely, enabling you to lock or unlock doors from anywhere using your smartphone. Many smart locks come with features like temporary access codes, so you can grant entry to trusted individuals without giving out your keys. Investing in a smart lock can significantly deter potential intruders, offering peace of mind during your getaway.
Use security cameras
Using security cameras is an effective strategy to secure your house while on vacation, as they provide both monitoring and deterrence. Opt for high-definition cameras with night vision capabilities to ensure clarity in various lighting conditions, and consider models that allow remote access via smartphone apps. Statistically, homes equipped with security cameras are less likely to be targeted by burglars, significantly reducing the risk of theft or vandalism. To enhance security further, position cameras at entry points and around the perimeter, ensuring they cover vulnerable areas of your property.
Implement motion sensor lights
Implementing motion sensor lights is an effective way to enhance your home's security during vacation periods. These lights can automatically activate when they detect movement, providing illumination around entry points, driveways, and pathways, which can deter potential intruders. By strategically placing these lights in high-risk areas, you increase visibility and create the impression that someone is present at home. You can choose from options with adjustable sensitivity and timer settings, allowing you to customize their operation to fit your specific needs.
Alert neighbors of your plans
Alerting neighbors about your vacation plans is a crucial step in securing your home. Informing them of your absence helps create a watchful network; they can notice any unusual activity around your property. You can also ask them to collect your mail or park a car in your driveway to give the impression that someone is home, enhancing security. Consider using neighborhood apps or community groups to quickly communicate your plans and build a proactive support system.
Stop mail and newspaper delivery
To secure your house during a vacation, ensure you stop mail and newspaper deliveries by notifying your local postal service and the newspaper company. This can often be done online or via a quick phone call, preventing your mailbox from overflowing and signaling that you're away. Consider scheduling this service at least a week prior to your departure date to ensure everything is set. For added security, ask a trusted neighbor or friend to collect any mail that may still arrive, adding another layer of vigilance to your home security plan.
Use timers for lights
Using timers for your lights can significantly enhance the security of your home during a vacation. Programmable timers allow you to set specific on and off times for your indoor and outdoor lights, creating the illusion that someone is home. Studies show that homes with lights on timers are 33% less likely to be targeted by burglars. For optimal effectiveness, stagger the schedule to vary the timing of the lights and consider incorporating smart home technology for remote control capabilities.
Secure windows and doors
To enhance security for your vacation home, focus on reinforcing windows and doors. Invest in high-quality deadbolt locks, which provide greater resistance against forced entry compared to standard locks. Installing window locks and securing sliding doors with rods or pins can further deter intruders. Consider using security film on windows to prevent shattering and alarm systems that alert you to any unauthorized access during your absence.
Remove spare keys hidden outside
Remove any spare keys that are hidden outside your home, as these can easily be a target for burglars. Over 30% of break-ins occur because intruders have found spare keys in common hiding places like under mats or flower pots. Instead, consider giving a trusted neighbor or friend a key for emergencies while you're away. This small but significant step significantly reduces the risk of unauthorized access and helps ensure the safety of your home during your vacation.
Hire a house sitter
Hiring a house sitter can significantly enhance the security of your home during vacation. A trustworthy house sitter not only maintains the appearance of an occupied residence but also actively monitors for unusual activity. When selecting a house sitter, ensure they have verifiable references and previous experience, aiming for a background check if possible. This proactive measure can deter potential intruders and provide you with peace of mind, knowing your home is in good hands while you're away.
Maintain landscaping for an occupied look
Maintaining your landscaping is crucial for an occupied appearance when securing your house for vacation. Trimmed lawns, potted plants, and fresh mulch create a well-cared-for look that deters potential intruders. Consider investing in a timer for outdoor lights to mimic your regular routine, emphasizing your occupancy even in your absence. Engaging a trusted neighbor or service to water your plants and mow your lawn every week can further enhance the illusion of a home that is still lived in.