7 Ways to Keep Your Home Safe When You’re Away
Are you planning a vacation or a business trip soon? If so, you might be wondering how to protect your home from burglars, vandals, or other unwanted visitors while you’re gone. Here are some tips to help you keep your home safe and secure when you’re away.
1. Lock all doors and windows. This might seem obvious, but it’s easy to forget a window or a back door that you don’t use often. Make sure you check every possible entry point and lock them securely before you leave. You can also use deadbolts, bars, or security pins to reinforce your locks.
2. Install a security system. A security system can deter intruders and alert you or the authorities if someone tries to break in. You can choose from different types of systems, such as alarms, cameras, motion sensors, or smart locks. Some systems also allow you to monitor and control your home remotely from your phone or computer.
3. Ask a friend or neighbor to watch your home. Having someone you trust to check on your home regularly can give you peace of mind and make your home look occupied. You can ask them to collect your mail, water your plants, take out the trash, or turn on some lights at night. You can also offer to do the same for them when they’re away.
4. Don’t advertise your absence. While it might be tempting to share your travel plans on social media, it’s better to keep them private until you return. You never know who might see your posts and take advantage of your absence. You should also avoid leaving a message on your voicemail or email that says you’re out of town.
5. Use timers or smart devices to create the illusion of presence. You can use timers or smart devices to turn on and off lights, TVs, radios, or other appliances at different times of the day and night. This can create the impression that someone is home and make it harder for burglars to target your home.
6. Secure your valuables and important documents. If someone does manage to break into your home, you don’t want them to find your jewelry, cash, electronics, or other valuables easily. You should store them in a safe, a locked cabinet, or a hidden spot that only you know. You should also make copies of your important documents, such as passports, IDs, bank statements, or insurance policies, and keep them in a separate location or online.
7. Prepare for emergencies. Even if you take all the precautions above, accidents can still happen while you’re away. You should prepare for emergencies by leaving a spare key with a trusted person, turning off the main water valve and gas supply, unplugging unnecessary appliances, and checking your smoke detectors and fire extinguishers.
