Prepare Your Home for Summer Vacation

Heading out on vacation this summer? Whether it’s for a few weeks or just a long weekend, follow these simple tips to keep your home safe while away.

Do a Walk-Through: Before heading out on your trip, do a thorough walk-through of your home. Check that all windows, doors, and gates are secure and that shrubs and bushes are cut-back and trimmed (especially around windows). Unplug any unnecessary electronics/appliances and raise the thermostat so it isn’t cooling an empty house. Clean-out the fridge of any produce that will expire while you are away, and empty trash and recycling.

Turn on Lights: It is so simple, but lighting is one of the best deterrents of home break-ins. To create the illusion you are home, set timers on interior lights and have motion activated lighting on the exterior of your home. Lastly, put porch lights on light-sensors so the entry points of your home are always illuminated.

Tell a Neighbor: Ask a trusted neighbor to keep a watchful eye while you are away. Let them know your travel plans, when you expect to return, and how they can contact you if needed. And, most neighbors won’t mind checking your mail, picking up sales flyers and papers, taking out your trash, and looking out for package deliveries.