Posted on Wednesday, November 6th, 2024 | 255 views
These home security tips will help keep your home safe and secure while you’re on vacation, allowing you to rest easy knowing your home is well-protected.
When planning a vacation, securing your home is as important as packing your suitcase. When no one is at home, it becomes more susceptible to break-ins and property damage.
Every year during common vacation periods, many homes become targets but you can take steps to safeguard your residence and give yourself peace of mind while you’re away.
Before you pack your bags and set off on your vacation, there are a few essential steps you can take to secure your home and save you from potential headaches later.
Here’s how to prepare:
Ensure your home insurance is up to date and covers incidents during extended absences. Also while you’re there, check if there are specific security measures that could lower your premiums or, if additional coverage is necessary for the duration of your trip.
A day before you depart, examine all entry the entry points in your home to make sure they are secure. If necessary, upgrade locks and consider adding window bars to certain windows if you live in a high-risk area. Also remember to fix any broken windows or locks before departing.
For tips on recognizing the signs that your home might be at risk, read our article on The Top 10 Signs You Need Home Security.
Specific steps to secure windows and doors:
For more detailed information about security sensors, visit our real-time security alerts page.
You can use timed lighting systems to give the impression that someone is home Light timers are effective at deterring intruders, especially if you have curtains that keep prying eyes out.
You can set lights to turn on and off in different rooms at different times which is highly effective in deterring potential burglars.
Install security cameras that can be monitored remotely so you can keep an eye on your property from your smartphone.
The more cameras you have set up in various parts of your home, the better, so make sure cameras cover all main entrances and high-risk areas.
The key locations to install security cameras:
Everyone wants to share their vacation plans with their friends and family, but it’s better to do this after you get back from your vacation.
Keep your travel plans off social media until you return and avoid announcing your absence publicly because doing so can attract unwanted attention from potential thieves and burglars.
It is a smart idea to let a trust neighbour, friend or family member know you’ll be on vacation. You can ask them to watch your house, collect your mail, and report any suspicious activity to you or the police. This monitoring adds an extra layer of security to your home by ensuring it appears lived in.
If you don’t already have one, consider installing a home security system. Systems with alarms and 24/7 monitoring will significantly enhance home safety.
Contact Canada Post to hold your mail while you are away because an overflowing mailbox is a sign that no one is home, which make it attractive for thieves.
Unplug all non-essential electrical appliances before you leave to save energy costs and reduce the risk of fires.
If your vacation will be extended, arrange for a service to maintain your lawn so it doesn’t look vacant, which could attract potential burglars.
Before you head out, walk through your home one last time and check everything again. Make sure all doors and windows are locked, the alarm system is set, and all security cameras are functioning properly. From here you should be able to enjoy a completely worry-free vacation.