If you’re like a lot of people, then you no doubt spend the better part of your year looking forward to the holidays and it’s not hard to understand why. Not only do you get the chance to enjoy the company of family and friends you probably rarely see, but for many of us, the holidays also present rare opportunities to get away from home for a while.
However, it’s important to make sure that we’re not leaving our homes and belongings open and vulnerable once we leave. Holiday time is one of the biggest times of the year for break-ins and other home mishaps, so let’s take a look at how you can make sure you’re properly secured.
Don’t Make It Obvious That You’re Not Home
Studies show that one of the simplest and most effective ways to keep burglars at bay is to set things up at home so that it’s not obvious that you’re away.
Make sure you stop delivery of your mail and newspapers so that they don’t pile up while you’re gone. Install timers on various appliances inside your home, like lights or your television set, to help keep the interior of your home illuminated at night. Leaving your shades, curtains, or blinds open when you leave can also help give the impression you’re home.
You can ask your friends and neighbors for help, too. Ask people you trust to park in your driveway occasionally, help keep your lawn mowed, and keep an eye on your home in general.
Last but definitely not least, burglarproof your home to the greatest extent possible. Install a security system if you don’t have one already. Take extra precautions to make sure that sliding glass doors, windows, garages, and other easy points of entry are secure enough. Keep very valuable items away from windows where they can be easily seen as well.
Don’t Forget to Disaster Proof Your Home
Burglars aren’t the only dangers to your home while you’re away this holiday season. Fires, floods, and other such occurrences can pose a threat as well. You can help reduce the chances of that happening by unplugging appliances that aren’t placed on timers and double-checking stoves and heat generating items around the house before leaving. If you’re planning on being away for longer than a week or so, then you might want to consider turning off your water as well.
Just a little prevention can go a long way toward keeping your home secure while you’re away. Get started today!