Security for Your Home While Vacationing 

The Federal Bureau of Investigation reports that there are 2.5 million burglaries annually in the United States. Statistically speaking a break-in occurs every fifteen seconds across the country. These numbers are alarming enough that you may never want to leave your home let alone head off on a family vacation for a couple of weeks.

Thankfully, there are a few steps that homeowners can take to ensure that their relaxing vacation does not take an unfortunate turn with the call from local police alerting them of a break-in at their property. 

Invest in a Home Security System 

Instant Alarm has been installing, servicing, and monitoring alarm systems in our region for over 60 years. We are a trusted partner with homeowners and business owners looking to gain some peace of mind that their property, belongings, and family members are protected. 

A high-quality and 24/7 monitored home security system can give families heading off on a much-needed vacation a sense that all will be well and watched over while they are away. 

According to recent studies published in Alarm.org, “Homes without a security system are 300% more likely to be broken into and burglarized.” That means that if a burglar has a choice between a home that is alarmed and one that is not, they will almost always take the less risky option. Your alarm system could be the deterrence that prevents your home from being one of the statistics of U.S. home break-ins annually. 

Take Precautions Inside The Home 

If you are headed off on a tropical vacation, or even just a trip to grandma’s house a few states away, there are a few precautions that can be taken to make a home look lived in and thus, less vulnerable to a break-in. 

The first and most important step in protecting your home while you are away is locking up. This should include not only the doors but also windows, bulkheads, and garages. If you have an alarm system, set it and inform a neighbor that you will be away for a certain amount of time. It is also a good idea to let your alarm company know of your plans so they can have heightened awareness of your property. 

Before you leave, set up timers for many of your lights to make the home look as if someone is home. Additionally, closing blinds and curtains that could give away that people are not present in the home is a smart move. 

Precautions for Outside The Home

Technology can be an absolute lifesaver for homeowners looking to escape for a couple of weeks on vacation. Motion sensor lighting can help deter burglars who are looking for a home that is not lit to break in. Put these types of lights at all entry points of your home as well as pointed toward your driveway. Surveillance cameras, doorbell videos, and alarm systems give vacationers peace of mind as they check on their property remotely. 

In addition to illuminating your property, be sure to cancel mail and deliveries that could make it obvious that you are not home. Leave a car in the driveway to give the appearance that someone is occupying the home. 

Depending upon the season, arrange for mowing of the grass or snow plowing of your driveway if circumstances should occur during the time of your absence. 

It’s always a good idea to inform a trusted neighbor of your plans so that they can keep an eye on your home and property and be yet another line of defense.