Your insurance agent can offer you home security safety tips. When you have a chance to get away from the day to day grind, the last thing you want to do is worry about whether or not your home is secure. There are several things you can do to protect your home and prevent break-ins. If you plan to take a trip anytime soon, pay close attention to these vacation home security tips.
Secure All Windows and Doors
The first thing that you should ensure before you leave for a vacation is to make sure that all the windows and doors are fastened. Secure your sliding doors by leaving a pole in the track to prevent it from being forced open. Some sliding doors have locking mechanisms to prevent forceful entry. Additionally, disable your automatic garage door opener to prevent vandals from getting in by decoding the signal. Remember that a securely locked place can deter potential burglars.
Stop Mail and Paper Deliveries
A very prominent sign that you are away from home is mail that accumulates in the mailbox or newspapers collecting on your front porch. Instead of letting things pile up, stop having them delivered to your home. When you return, pick up your mail and newspapers and restart your service. Usually, there is no charge for this service, and you can stop and start your service any time you want.
Install a DIY Home Security System
A DIY home security system is one of the best ways to protect your home. Motion detection sensors, window/door sensors, video cameras, two-way voice communication, and video doorbells can effectively deter would-be thieves. Video cameras and doorbells also offer the option of a downloadable app that allows you to see your home whenever you want. Many home security systems also offer home automation technology that enables you to control your lights and thermostat through the app on your phone. Alert your home security vendor when you go for a vacation so that they can immediately contact the police if they spot an irregularity.
Your Friend or Family Member can House-Sit for You
The best way to keep your home and property safe while you are away on vacation is to make sure it doesn’t sit empty. Have a friend or family member stay at your home while you are gone. This is an excellent solution if you have pets that need to be taken care of. A house-sitter can take care of your pets and make your house look lived in while you are away. With someone at your home, you have the security of knowing things are being taken care of while you are away.
Keep Your Home Well-Lit
Whether you are at home or on vacation, keeping the exterior of your home well-lit is the best way to keep intruders at bay. With ample exterior lighting, all points of entry are visible. Any time someone gets close to a window or doorway, their shadow will give them away. If you don’t want to have lights on all the time, you can purchase motion-activated lighting. You can include ambient lighting in your landscaping to help keep things illuminated without having the lights overpower your home. Additionally, to give the impression that there are people living in your house, set up timers on a couple of lights throughout your house. The timers can be set to operate your lights as per your daily routine. This is a good idea to enhance your home security while on vacation.
If you are looking for home insurance tips for when you go on vacation, call the agents of Phocus Insurance Services. We are always available to answer questions and offer much-needed advice to our clients looking for effective ways to protect their homes while they are on vacation. Call today and set up a meeting!
