- Secure all doors and windows with working locks, and consider adding additional locks/security systems.
- Invest in a sturdy fence to provide an extra layer of security.
- Change passwords associated with online accounts before leaving.
- Hide valuables in uncommon places to make it difficult for burglars.
- Unplug all electronic devices, secure outdoor items, turn off the water main, and notify trusted neighbors before leaving for a trip.
Going on a trip—for business or pleasure—is always an exciting experience. It gives you a chance to explore new places and has unique experiences. But there’s also the worry of leaving your home unprotected while you’re away.
According to the FBI, burglary accounts for significant property crime in the United States. This often occurs when homeowners are away for an extended period. Taking steps to protect your home while you’re gone is essential if you want to avoid becoming a victim of burglary or other crimes. Fortunately, there are some easy and practical ways to safeguard your property while you’re away on vacation. Here are a few tips:
Secure Your Doors and Windows
The first thing that comes to mind when thinking about home security is the locks on your doors and windows. Ensure all the locks are in working order and functioning correctly before leaving for your trip. If any of them are broken, replace them before you go. Also, consider adding additional locks or a security system if necessary.
If you have a sliding glass door, ensure it has an extra bolt or latch installed so intruders cannot easily open it from outside. Lastly, keep all exterior doors closed and locked at all times—even during the day when no one is home. This will help deter potential burglars from breaking into your home even if no one is around to monitor them.
Invest in Fencing
A house fence is a great way to protect your property while away. Not only does fencing create an added layer of protection, but it also adds privacy and can help keep out unwanted visitors. There are many fencing options, but the Trex seclusion fence is one of the most secure and durable. Trex’s composTrex’sncing features a black, powder-coated steel frame and posts built to last through all weather conditions. They also offer additional customization options so you can design the perfect fence for your home.
Change Your Passwords
Another important step before leaving for a trip is changing all your passwords associated with online accounts such as banking, social media, email, etc. This will help prevent unauthorized access to these accounts while you are away and provide an added layer of security to ensure your personal information remains protected from potential cybercriminals looking to take advantage of vulnerable users who are not actively monitoring their accounts while traveling abroad.
Hide Valuables in Uncommon Places
It’s also important to hide any valuables lying around in unusual places, such as drawers or closets, that are hard for burglars to reach or locate quickly. This includes items such as jewelry, electronics, and even cash that may be stored in plain sight within easy reach of intruders once they gain access to the house.
The idea is to make it difficult for burglars by making them work harder than usual to find anything valuable worth stealing once they’ve broken into the house. By hiding these items in unusual places throughout the house, you can reduce the likelihood of theft due to increased difficulty for potential burglars looking for something valuable worth taking with them once they’ve made their way inside your house, unnoticed or undetected by anyone else nearby at the time of entry.
Things to do Before You Leave
Once you’ve taken the necessary steps to protect your home, it’s essential to ensure everything is in order before leaving for your trip. Here are the things you should do before leaving:
Unplug all electronic devices
From bedrooms, common areas, and kitchen, to garage and basement, go through each area of your home and unplug all electronic devices. This includes TVs, computers, gaming systems, printers, etc.
Secure outdoor items
Secure all outdoor items such as lawn furniture, grills, and tools to prevent intruders from gaining access. Consider investing in a sturdy lock for your shed or garage if necessary.
Turn off the water
If you’re going on an extended trip, turn off the main water supply to minimize the risk of flooding due to burst pipes.
Notify your neighbors
Let your trusted neighbor know that you’re leaving town, so they can keep an eye out for suspicious activity and contact the authorities in case of emergencies.
Traveling abroad can be both thrilling and nerve-wracking at the same time since there’s always a chance something could happen back home while you’re away, but following the tips above can help give you peace of mind and make sure your home is safe and secure while you’re away. So, be sure to take the necessary steps before leaving for a trip to ensure your property remains protected from criminals.
