To secure your house while on vacation, start by informing a trusted neighbor or friend about your absence, so they can keep an eye on your property. Install effective lighting, such as motion-sensor lights, to deter intruders during nighttime hours. Reinforce entry points by using deadbolts on doors and quality window locks, which enhances your home's overall security. Utilize smart home technology by connecting security cameras and alarms to your smartphone, allowing you to monitor activities remotely. Finally, consider a timer for indoor lights to create the appearance of occupancy, further safeguarding your home against potential break-ins.
How To Secure A House While On Vacation
Install security cameras
Installing security cameras is a highly effective measure to secure your home while on vacation. Choose high-resolution cameras with night vision capabilities to ensure clear images in low-light conditions, providing 24/7 surveillance. Opt for a system that supports remote access, allowing you to monitor live feeds from your smartphone, which enhances peace of mind. Position cameras at entry points such as doorways and windows, aiming to cover all angles of your property for optimal security.
Use smart locks
Using smart locks is a highly effective way to secure your house while on vacation. These devices allow you to control access to your home remotely, enabling you to lock or unlock doors from anywhere via your smartphone. Many smart locks offer features such as temporary access codes for guests or service providers, ensuring that only trusted individuals can enter your home. Additionally, some models provide real-time notifications, so you can monitor activities and feel more secure during your trip.
Set timers for lights
Setting timers for lights is an effective strategy to enhance your home security while on vacation. By scheduling indoor and outdoor lights to turn on and off at specific times, you create the illusion that someone is home, which can deter potential burglars. Choose timers with randomized settings to vary the exact times, making it less predictable. For maximum effectiveness, combine light timers with other security measures such as motion sensor lights or smart home systems that allow remote control of lighting from your phone.
Notify trusted neighbors
Notifying trusted neighbors about your vacation plans is a vital step in securing your home while you are away. By informing them of your absence, you empower them to keep an eye on your property, reporting any suspicious activity. Providing them with your contact information allows them to reach you in case of an emergency, ensuring you remain informed. Encourage your neighbors to collect your mail and rotate your outdoor lights, which can help create the illusion that someone is home, further deterring potential intruders.
Hold mail and newspaper deliveries
Securing your house while on vacation can be significantly enhanced by managing your mail and newspaper deliveries. You can hold your mail through the United States Postal Service (USPS) by filling out a simple request form online or at your local post office, ensuring that accumulated mail doesn't signal your absence. Similarly, pausing newspaper deliveries prevents stacks of papers from accumulating, which can serve as a telltale sign that no one is home. By taking these measures, you protect your property and maintain the appearance of an occupied home.
Secure doors and windows
To enhance the security of your home while on vacation, focus on reinforcing doors and windows, which are primary entry points for intruders. Invest in quality deadbolt locks for exterior doors and ensure they are properly installed, with a secure strike plate to resist tampering. For windows, consider installing window locks or security bars, and apply shatterproof film to strengthen the glass against break-ins. Don't forget to check for any gaps or weaknesses in your door and window frames, sealing them effectively to bolster your home's overall security.
Use motion-sensor lights
Installing motion-sensor lights around your property significantly enhances security during your vacation. These lights can detect movement within a specific range, typically around 30 feet, and illuminate areas such as entryways, driveways, and backyards. By using energy-efficient LED bulbs, you can save on electricity costs while ensuring the lights only activate when necessary. Strategically placed motion-sensor lights deter potential intruders and provide peace of mind, knowing your home is being monitored even in your absence.
Don't post travel plans on social media
To enhance home security during your vacation, avoid posting your travel plans on social media platforms. Sharing details about your absence can attract unwanted attention from potential intruders. Instead, consider using privacy settings to limit access to your posts or only share updates once you return home. Simple measures like timing your posts can help you maintain security while still enjoying the fun of sharing moments with friends.
Trim overgrown shrubs
Overgrown shrubs can provide hiding spots for intruders, making it essential to trim them before your vacation to improve visibility around your home. Aim to cut back any overgrown foliage to a height of no more than three feet near windows and pathways, which enhances natural light and discourages unwanted visitors. Regular maintenance, such as trimming once every season, can effectively keep shrubs manageable and the landscape neat. Also, consider using the trimmed branches as mulch in your garden, which not only utilizes the waste but also helps maintain moisture levels in your plants.
Engage a home security system
Engaging a home security system is crucial for protecting your property during vacations. According to the FBI, homes without security systems are 300% more likely to be broken into, emphasizing the importance of this investment. Look for systems featuring 24/7 monitoring, motion detectors, and smart home integration, which can enhance your home's safety and allow remote access via your smartphone. Consider setting up security cameras and smart lighting to create the illusion of occupancy, further deterring potential intruders while you enjoy your getaway.