Tips for Protecting Your Property While Away for Vacation

• 1. Why Protecting Your Property Is Essential
• 2. Key Steps to Keep Your Home Safe
• 3. Advanced Security Measures for Your Home
• 4. Common Security Mistakes to Avoid
• 5. Maintaining Home Security While Away

1. Why Protecting Your Property Is Essential

When you leave your home for a vacation, you’re not just going to enjoy some time away—you’re also leaving behind your most valuable possessions. Whether it’s expensive electronics, personal belongings, or even sentimental items, it’s crucial to ensure your property is secure while you’re away. Vacations can be an excellent opportunity for burglars to target homes that are unoccupied, and studies show that homes are more likely to be broken into during vacation periods.

In addition to protecting your belongings, securing your home is also about peace of mind. Knowing that your house is safe and sound while you’re away can help you relax and enjoy your vacation without constant worry. In this article, we’ll explore practical tips and advanced security measures to help you protect your property effectively.

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2. Key Steps to Keep Your Home Safe

Here are several basic but effective steps to take before leaving for your vacation to keep your home secure:

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1. Secure All Windows and Doors

Before leaving, double-check that all windows and doors are locked and secure. Often, intruders gain access through unlocked windows or doors. Consider reinforcing entry points with deadbolts and quality locks. Installing security bars on vulnerable windows can also offer extra protection.

2. Use Timed Lighting

Burglars tend to target homes that look empty. To create the illusion that someone is home, use timed lighting systems that turn your lights on and off at random intervals. This can discourage potential intruders from attempting to break in. You can also invest in smart lighting that you can control remotely from your smartphone.

3. Inform Trusted Neighbors

Let a trusted neighbor know you’ll be away. They can keep an eye on your property, collect your mail, and even park their car in your driveway to give the impression that someone is home. Having a neighbor check in on your home while you're away adds an extra layer of protection.

4. Remove or Hide Valuables

Don’t leave expensive items like electronics, jewelry, or important documents visible through windows. If possible, store valuable items in a safe or lockbox, or move them to a secure location that’s less obvious to would-be burglars.

3. Advanced Security Measures for Your Home

If you want to take your home security to the next level, consider implementing these advanced measures:

1. Install a Home Security System

Home security systems are a proven way to deter burglars. Modern systems often come with cameras, motion detectors, door/window sensors, and alarm features. Many systems can be monitored remotely, allowing you to check in on your property in real-time through your phone or computer. Some systems even send alerts if motion is detected or if windows or doors are tampered with.

2. Use Smart Home Devices

Incorporating smart home technology, such as video doorbells, smart locks, and remote-controlled cameras, can greatly enhance your security. These devices allow you to monitor and control your home’s security remotely, providing real-time updates and video footage. Many smart devices integrate with home security systems for added convenience and protection.

3. Consider a Security Patrol Service

If you’re going on a long vacation or leaving your home for an extended period, hiring a professional security patrol service can provide added protection. Security companies can check on your home periodically and even patrol the area to ensure everything remains secure.

4. Common Security Mistakes to Avoid

While there are many effective ways to protect your property, there are also common mistakes that homeowners make. Here are a few to watch out for:

• Announcing Your Vacation on Social Media – It’s tempting to share your vacation plans on social media, but this can alert burglars that your home is unoccupied. Wait until you return to post pictures and updates about your trip.
• Leaving Spare Keys in Obvious Places – Hiding spare keys under mats or in planters is a bad idea. Burglars know where to look. Instead, leave a spare key with a trusted neighbor or use a lockbox with a secure code.
• Overloading Your Security with Devices – While it’s great to have multiple security measures in place, overloading your home with too many devices can make them harder to monitor and maintain. Choose quality over quantity and focus on the most effective measures.

5. Maintaining Your Window Security

Windows are often the most vulnerable points of entry for burglars, so maintaining window security is crucial when protecting your property. Ensure that all windows are properly locked and consider installing additional security measures, such as window sensors or security films that reinforce glass. Regularly inspect window locks to ensure they are functioning properly, and replace any outdated or broken locks.

In addition, always make sure that no valuables are in view from the outside. If possible, use curtains or blinds to obscure the inside of your home. Finally, if you have sliding glass doors, consider adding a security bar or a locking device specifically designed for sliding doors, as they are often easier to bypass.

By taking these steps, you can significantly reduce the risk of a break-in while you're on vacation and protect your property effectively.

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