Travelling can be exciting, but it also means leaving your home unoccupied and vulnerable to potential threats. To ensure your peace of mind while you’re away, it’s crucial to take steps to protect your home. Here are several strategies to safeguard your property during your travels.
#1 – Use Smart Home Technology
Smart home devices can enhance your home’s security while you’re away. Smart locks allow you to control door locks remotely, and smart lights can be programmed to turn on and off at specific times to create the illusion of occupancy. Smart plugs can control appliances, adding another layer of realism to your home’s activity patterns.
#2 – Secure All Entry Points
Ensure that all doors and windows are securely locked before you leave. For windows, use security film to make them more resistant to breaking; don’t forget to secure the garage door, as it can be an easy target. You might want to invest in an anti loitering alarm from Mosquito as this can stop people hanging out near your property and noticing that it is empty.
#3 – Use Timers for Lights and Electronics
Timers are a simple way to deter burglars. Set timers for interior lights, televisions, and radios to turn on and off at various times throughout the day and night. This creates the impression that someone is home, making your house less attractive to potential thieves.
#4 – Keep Your Plans Private
Avoid sharing your travel plans with anyone who doesn’t need to know. Publicising your absence can make your home a target for burglars, particularly on social media. Wait until you get home to share photos and updates.
#5 – Arrange for Mail and Packages to be Collected
A pile of uncollected mail and packages is a clear sign that no one is home. Arrange for a trusted neighbour or friend to collect your mail and packages, or put a hold on mail delivery through your local post office. If you receive regular newspaper deliveries, suspend them during your trip.
#6 – Maintain Your Yard
An unkempt yard can signal that a house is unoccupied. If you’re travelling for an extended period, arrange for someone to take care of any necessary yard work. In addition, consider asking a neighbour to park in your driveway as this can help give the appearance that someone is home.
#7 – Inform a Trusted Neighbour
Let a trusted neighbour know about your travel plans. Ask them to keep an eye on your property and provide them with a key to your home in case of emergencies (and ensure they have your contact information).
#8 – Unplug Electronics
Unplug non-essential electronics to protect them from power surges and reduce the risk of fire. This includes items like televisions, computers, and small kitchen appliances. Additionally, this helps reduce your energy consumption while you’re away.
#9 – Use Security Signs and Stickers
Even if you don’t have a security system, placing security company signs and stickers around your property can act as a deterrent. Burglars are less likely to target a home if they believe it’s protected by a security system.
By implementing these measures, you can significantly reduce the risk of break-ins and ensure that your home remains safe while you enjoy your travels. The key is to make your home appear occupied, stay discreet about your absence, and enlist the help of trusted neighbors and friends. These steps will give you the peace of mind to fully enjoy your time away.
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