It’s that time of year we all look forward to – vacation! Whether you’re looking forward to tanning on the beach, hiking in the mountains, or skiing on the slopes, vacations are much more enjoyable when we don’t have to worry about what’s going on at home while we’re away. Below are some tips to help secure your home so you can have some R&R and an overall peaceful vacation experience.

1. Hire someone to house sit or watch your pets. Whether another family member, friend or a neighbor, make sure you hire someone you trust to watch over your pets and belongings while you’re gone.
2. Hold your mail. If you can’t find someone to check it and take it in daily, call your local post office and ask them to stop delivery until you return.
3. Temporarily stop newspaper delivery. The same principle as with your mail – letting it pile up on your front porch lets potential thieves know you aren’t home and may not be for a while. As with mail, call and ask them to cease delivery services until you return.
4. Ask someone to check on your home. If you can’t find a house sitter, then ask someone you trust to stop by and check the premises for you.
5. Make your home look like someone is still there. Purchase lights with timers that turn on for a while during evening hours to make it appear that someone is inside your home. Ask a neighbor to take out your garbage and put your cans or dumpster back after it has been picked up.
6. Keep your lawn looking neat. Cut your grass and complete your usual lawn maintenance routine before you go. If you’ll be gone an extended period of time, hire a landscaping company to do the work for you while you’re gone.
7. Before you leave, make sure everything is locked. It’s easy to forget a window or a deadbolt, so double check all areas of entry/exit before you leave.
8. Don’t go overboard in announcing your plans to leave. Don’t post every detail online about where you’re going, how long you’ll be gone, etc. Be mindful of talking about it in public as well, as you never know the type of person eavesdropping on your conversation.
9. Disconnect electronics. Unplugging your computer, coffee pot, and television can help you save money while you’re away. Also, be sure to turn off your garage door so intruders cannot open it with a universal remote control. Store your GPS out of sight if you’re leaving your car at the airport. If your car is broken into, the burglar could use your GPS to find your house.
10. Investing in a security system. Of course, this is the best method of ensuring your home will stay safe while you’re away. Even making the choice of using exterior motion detector lights can help.