When planning a short or long-term holiday, protecting your home and property are an important consideration. Vacations should be dedicated to fun and relaxation, not worrying about break-ins or the loss of valuables. Summer is undoubtedly the most popular time for family vacations, but burglaries can happen any time of year. An empty house is a much easier target for thieves. Whether you are planning a weekend trip or an epic getaway, there are some simple steps that can help keep your house safe.
The team at Maryland Security Professionals understands the myriad concerns facing Baltimore homeowners today – especially those who travel frequently. In our years of experience serving the Mid-Atlantic region, we know that home video surveillance systems are one of the best lines of defense for increasing perimeter security.
With this in mind, we offer the following advice on ways to protect your home when you are vacationing.
#1. Make it appear as if someone is always home
Most criminals are looking for an easy entrance and exit that is completely undetected. One of the easiest ways to deter a potential break-in is to make it look like someone is home. Leave several lights on throughout the house, or set timers so that lights come on and switch off throughout your vacation period. Leaving your car (or that of a friend) in the driveway, rather than the garage, also makes it seem like the house is occupied.
#2. Remove any spare keys around the property
This may seem obvious, but always remove spare house keys that you have hidden around your property. Experienced criminals will likely know the familiar hiding places. Before jetting off on your holiday, leave the keys with a trusted neighbor, friend or relative for safe keeping.
#3. Invest in home security cameras
One of the best ways to secure your home and deter criminals is by installing a video surveillance system with both exterior and interior cameras. Built-in sensors detect motion which prompts video recording. Look for high resolution cameras with infrared technology for night vision and remote monitoring capabilities.
#4. Secure your valuables out of plain sight
Before leaving, ensure your curtains or window treatments are closed, so that televisions, computers and other valuable items aren’t in plain sight. Smaller items such as jewelry, cash and precious keepsakes can be stowed away in a lock box or safe that is well hidden.
#5. Enlist the help of your neighbors and friends
If your itinerary is especially long, it’s a good idea to have a neighbor or friend in the close vicinity to keep an eye out on your property. You want someone around who can stop by daily and report any suspicious activity to law enforcement. Arrange to have newspapers or mail delivery stopped during your travels or ensure your neighbor will collect it.
#6. Don’t broadcast your travel plans/location on social media
It’s tempting to share your exciting vacation plans on Twitter, Facebook or Instagram, but it’s best to refrain until you’ve returned home from your trip. Even if you programmed your posts to be viewed by “friends only,” it’s not advisable to broadcast your absence to possible trespassers.
Request a free security audit from Maryland Security Professionals
Maryland Security Professionals offers competitive pricing on custom home surveillance systems in Baltimore and to homes throughout Maryland, Virginia, West Virginia, Delaware and the mid-Atlantic. Call today to request a free security audit.
Additional Resources:
- GEICO, 7 Ways To Protect Your Home While You’re On Vacation https://www.geico.com/more/living/home-protection/7-ways-to-protect-your-home-while-youre-on-vacation/
- State Farm, 13 Ways to Protect Your Home When You Travel https://www.statefarm.com/simple-insights/residence/13-ways-to-protect-your-home-when-you-travel