12 Things That Can Protect Your Home While You’re Away

• 2019-01-03
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12 Things That Can Protect Your Home While You’re Away

Whether you’re going on vacation, visiting family, or simply leaving your house unattended for an extended period, ensuring the safety of your home while you’re away is crucial. Fortunately, there are several steps you can take to protect your property from potential theft, damage, or other mishaps. Here are 12 things you can do to safeguard your home while you’re away.

1. Install a Smart Security System

Why It’s Important:

A smart security system can monitor your home 24/7, alerting you and the authorities if there’s a break-in, fire, or other emergency. These systems often include motion sensors, cameras, and door/window sensors.

How It Helps:

Many smart security systems allow you to check on your home in real-time through your smartphone, providing peace of mind no matter where you are.

2. Use Timers for Lights

Why It’s Important:

A dark house can be a sign that no one is home, making it an easy target for burglars.

How It Helps:

Set timers for your indoor and outdoor lights to turn on and off at varying times to make it look like someone is home. Smart plugs can also be used to control lamps and other devices from your phone.

3. Secure Doors and Windows

Why It’s Important:

Unlocked or improperly secured doors and windows are the most common entry points for burglars.

How It Helps:

Before you leave, double-check that all doors and windows are locked and secure. You can also install deadbolts, security bars, or window sensors to add an extra layer of protection.

4. Get a Video Doorbell

Why It’s Important:

Video doorbells allow you to see who’s at your door, even when you’re not home, and many have two-way communication features.

How It Helps:

This can be a deterrent for burglars and package thieves. You can receive alerts when someone approaches your door, and many video doorbells also record footage that can be used as evidence if needed.

5. Ask a Neighbor or Friend to Check In

Why It’s Important:

A trusted neighbor or friend can keep an eye on your property and make sure everything is in order while you’re away.

How It Helps:

They can collect your mail, water plants, and check for any signs of trouble, such as broken windows or suspicious activity. Letting a neighbor park in your driveway occasionally also gives the appearance that someone is home.

6. Hold or Redirect Mail and Packages

Why It’s Important:

A pile of mail or packages left on your doorstep is a clear sign that no one is home.

How It Helps:

Request a mail hold from the postal service or have a neighbor collect your mail and packages while you’re away. You can also use package delivery lockers to avoid having boxes left outside.

7. Install Motion-Activated Lights

Why It’s Important:

Burglars are less likely to approach a house that is well-lit, and motion-activated lights can startle and deter them.

How It Helps:

Install motion-sensor lights around your home’s exterior, especially near entrances and dark corners. The sudden illumination can make intruders feel exposed and discourage them from attempting a break-in.

8. Unplug Non-Essential Electronics

Why It’s Important:

Leaving electronics plugged in can pose a fire hazard or waste energy while you’re away.

How It Helps:

Unplugging non-essential electronics like TVs, chargers, and small appliances reduces the risk of electrical fires and power surges. It also saves energy, which is good for both your wallet and the environment.

9. Shut Off the Water Supply

Why It’s Important:

A burst pipe or leak can cause significant damage to your home, especially if no one is there to notice it.

How It Helps:

Shut off the main water valve before you leave to prevent potential flooding. Alternatively, you can install a smart water shutoff system that detects leaks and automatically shuts off the water supply.

10. Set Up Indoor and Outdoor Cameras

Why It’s Important:

Cameras act as a deterrent for would-be intruders and provide a record of any suspicious activity.

How It Helps:

Indoor and outdoor security cameras can help you monitor your home remotely. You’ll be able to check live footage or review recorded events, and many cameras have motion detection and alert features to notify you if something unusual happens.

11. Don’t Advertise Your Absence on Social Media

Why It’s Important:

Announcing your travel plans on social media can unintentionally alert people to your absence, making your home a target for theft.

How It Helps:

Avoid posting about your vacation or extended absence until after you return. If you must share, ensure your privacy settings limit who can see your posts.

12. Keep Valuables Out of Sight

Why It’s Important:

Valuables like jewelry, electronics, and cash can be tempting targets for burglars if they’re easily visible from windows.

How It Helps:

Keep valuables out of sight, especially from first-floor windows. Consider installing curtains or blinds to obscure the view inside your home, or lock valuable items in a safe.

Final Thoughts

Protecting your home while you’re away requires a combination of technology, common sense, and preventative measures. By following these 12 tips, you can reduce the risk of theft or damage and enjoy your time away with peace of mind. Taking these precautions will ensure your home is as safe and secure as possible until you return.