Last Updated on November 17, 2013
When you get ready to travel, you’re more than likely focused on packing your bags and getting out of town, but before you go, it is important to secure your home and do what you can to conceal the fact that your home is unoccupied from thieves.
Select home security system companies offer 24-hour monitoring that can help protect your belongings while you’re away, and these should serve as the last line of defense. Here are some simple steps you can take to protect your home while you are out globetrotting.
Apply for mail and newspaper holding
If mail accumulates in your mailbox to the point that it’s bulging at the door, or if your newspaper box or driveway begins to collect papers over the course of a few days, it becomes a clear sign that you aren’t at home. This may attract potential thieves who are looking for an easy, unoccupied target. Talk to your local post office and newspaper company about putting your items on hold while you’re away.
Double check to ensure that your doors and windows are locked
Don’t take this step for granted. Double, even triple check to ensure all your entrances are sealed and locked, including deadbolts. Also, place a heavy metal pipe in the track of patio doors, and properly secure your garage door from the inside. This makes it more difficult for a burglar to get into your home – especially without being detected by a neighbor or passerby.
If you’re going away for an extended time, arrange lawn care services
Another way to tip off the fact that you have been away a long time is letting your lawn get out of hand. Hire a trustworthy landscaper to cut your grass, pull weeds and trim hedges while you’re away so you don’t make it obvious that the home is unoccupied, and so you don’t become the target of a burglar looking for an uncontested break-in.
Coordinate with neighbors and family members to check on the home
By letting your neighbors know you are away, they will be just that little bit more vigilant and aware if they see someone who is unfamiliar lurking on or near your property. While family members might be busy, it helps to have them come by every once in a while to check that everything in the house is still in working order.
Get a housesitter
The best way to protect your home is by hiring a housesitter so that your home stays occupied the whole time you are away. Having a housesitter gives your house that ‘lived-in’ look, plus a housesitter can also take care of your mail, the lawn, water your plants and look after your pets – if you have any – saving you the cost of a kennel.
Securing your home doesn’t take a considerable amount of extra effort, but it can give you peace of mind while you’re away on your trip of a lifetime.
