School is out and summer is kicking off with lots of sunshine and pleasant temperatures across the country. As COVID travel restrictions become more relaxed, many Americans are planning on using this time to take a well-deserved vacation. Whether you’re flying, driving, or simply spending extra time with friends and family that you haven’t seen in a while, a worry-free vacation is always the best, and having the proper home security tips can leave you and your family with a greater sense of peace of mind.
So how should you secure your home during this vacation season? By following these tips, you will know that you have done your part in securing your home during your getaway.
Security Systems
New security technologies are emerging every day, and this leaves homeowners with all kinds of traditional or smart home security systems.
Typical security systems can range from:
- Door alarms that sound when someone enters
- 24/7 monitoring from a security company
- Exterior/interior cameras
- Doorbells with cameras
- Window alarms that sound from broken glass
- Security systems that use multiple kinds of alarms or products
Smart home security systems monitor what’s going on in your home in the moment. They can detect things like a fire, a carbon monoxide leak, or even a flood. Many smart home security systems offer features like exterior, interior, and doorbell cameras that can be accessed through your phone from hundreds of miles away. This kind of system can add an extra sense of security while you are away on your vacation.
Hide Your Spare Key
Many people are afraid to get locked out of their house and will hide a spare key. This does not mean hiding it under the doormat! If a stranger can easily find your spare key, then you, your family, and your home are not safe. Hiding your key in an unsecured location can become a liability when you’re away on vacation and can’t keep track of where it is.
Instead of hiding your key under the doormat, use a fake hollow rock that blends into your yard or a key holder that you can put in an obscure place like under your porch. You could also install a garage door opener with a keypad as an alternative.
Look Like You’re Home
Instead of turning off all your lights and unplugging appliances, you can make your house look like your home by:
- Putting different lights on timers
- Have someone cut your grass while you’re gone
- Park a car in your driveway
- Have a trusted neighbor collect your mail/packages
Not only can your trusted neighbor collect any deliveries for you, but they can also act as a lookout for your property. If you’re going on a long vacation, they can even do small tasks for you if they are willing to help.
Overall
Keeping your home secure during the summer vacation season is not the hardest thing in the world, but these tips will help. Regardless of your getaway location, these tips will help you enjoy your stay and give you peace of mind about your home’s security.
