Securing Your Home While on Vacation

The last thing you should worry about during a vacation is your home. However, you should still secure your home before leaving to prevent theft and to ease your worries. By following these tips, you will be able to properly secure your home while traveling! 

Appearance is Key 

Your home may be unoccupied, but that doesn't mean it should look vacant. You don’t want a thief to see piles of old newspapers, an overflowing mailbox, or other telltale signs that you're away. The first thing you should do is contact the post office and your newspaper provider to alert them of your travels. They will suspend your mail until you arrive home, and you will likely not have to pay for the newspaper.

 Depending on how long you're away, you may wish to have your bushes and garden kept up to make the house seem occupied. You can ask a relative, friend, or a trusty neighbor to help you. If you really trust your neighbor, you can also have them turn on the porch lights at night to add to the appearance. 

Home Security 

Systems Home security systems can help to prevent burglaries, and the tapes can also be used as evidence. You don't need a camera along every wall to be safe, but you can place a camera near the porch for protection and prevention. If a criminal sees that your house is under surveillance, then they will most likely move on to a simpler target. You can prevent burglaries by placing cameras near points of entry such as windows, doors, and the garage. For residents of Texas, there are several reputable San Antonio home security companies that offer full protection for your home.

 Many systems now come with automatic email and text message alerts. If your house is broken into, then you will be notified along with the local authorities instantly. You can also have live footage sent directly to your laptop, tablet, or phone. 

Securing Your Valuables 

You don't have to hide your television every time you travel, but there are ways of securing your valuables from potential crooks. Make sure to close your blinds so that no one can see what's inside. If you have important jewelry, nostalgic items, or anything that is personal and irreplaceable, then it is worthwhile to invest in a small safe. You don't need to store your whole wardrobe inside, but placing anything important inside of a safe will help you to travel without worries. Televisions are replaceable, but family heirlooms are not. 

Back to Basics 

You've cancelled the paper, installed a security system, and you have your valuables in a safe. Now, it's time to go back to the basics. Many travelers rush out the door worrying about their trip, and in doing so, they forget to lock their doors. It happens to everyone. Try to take your time when leaving, and make sure to pack the night before departure. You don't want to arrive in a foreign country and suddenly remember that your door is unlocked. Keep calm, plan ahead, and try opening every door from the outside twice if it gives you peace of mind. By following these tips, you will be able to travel without any worries. When you return, your home will be exactly as you left it!