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Peace of Mind on Vacation Starts with Safety At Home
Thieves are getting more creative, and they have a knack for determining when homes are sitting empty. According to the FBI, a burglary happens every 30 seconds in the United States, making home security more critical than ever. Keeping your home and belongings secure while out of town starts with precautionary measures at home. Homes without security systems are 300% more likely to be targeted by burglars. The single best way to keep your home from looking like a target is by maintaining the perception of activity in your house.
However, if you truly want peace of mind, invest in these home safety solutions to ensure that even if a burglar tries anything while you’re away, you’ll be the first to know:
Security and Safety Tips
Securing your home before you leave ensures that it doesn’t become an easy target for burglars. According to SafeHome, 60% of burglars who see signs of activity will move on to another target.
- Lock All Doors and Windows: Ensure all entry points, including less obvious ones like basement windows and side doors, are secured.
- Activate Your Security System: Make sure your security system is fully armed before you leave. Double-check for any open windows or doors that might compromise your system.
- Inform Neighbors or Authorities: Let trusted neighbors or local authorities know you’ll be away so they can keep an eye on your property. This step helps maintain a layer of community awareness and safety.
- Pause Mail and Deliveries: Uncollected mail or packages is one of the most visible signs that a home is vacant. Pause mail or ask a neighbor to collect it for you.
Home Maintenance and Preparation
- Prepare Plumbing and HVAC Systems: If you’re traveling during cold weather, drain the water from your pipes to avoid freezing. Set your thermostat to a temperature that will conserve energy while keeping the house safe.
- Unplug Non-Essential Appliances: This prevents potential fire hazards and helps reduce energy costs. Appliances like TVs, microwaves, and chargers can continue to draw power even when not in use.
- Maintain Yard Appearance: A well-kept yard is one of the simplest ways to give the impression that someone is home. Ensure your lawn is mowed and bushes are trimmed before you leave.
Energy Efficiency and Cost Savings
- Adjust Thermostat Settings: Set your thermostat higher in the summer and lower in the winter to reduce heating or cooling costs while you’re away. According to Energy.gov, setting your thermostat 7-10 degrees higher or lower for 8 hours a day can save you 10% on energy bills annually.
- Use Smart Devices for Energy Monitoring: Smart thermostats and outlets allow you to control and monitor your home’s energy use from your phone, ensuring everything is functioning properly while you’re away.
Cleaning and Organization
- Thoroughly Clean Your Home: Before leaving, clean your house to prevent pests and unpleasant odors from developing while you’re gone.
- Secure Valuables: Store valuable items like jewelry, electronics, or important documents in a safe. According to the Insurance Information Institute (III), the average loss from a burglary is around $2,800, so securing high-value items is essential.
Notifications and Communication
- Alert Banks and Credit Card Companies: Notify your financial institutions about your travel plans so your transactions don’t get flagged as suspicious, and to protect against fraud.
- Inform Your Insurance Provider: Let your home insurance company know you’ll be away, and ensure your policy covers any potential incidents.
Conclusion
Vacations and traveling can be stressful, and the last thing you want to worry about is the safety of your home. By taking proactive steps to ensure your home is monitored and maintaining the perception of activity, you can enjoy your trip with peace of mind.
For additional security measures, explore Batten’s Home Security Marketplace for the best smart home devices, security systems, and energy-saving solutions to protect your home while you’re on vacation.