Vacationing? How Home Security Can Put You at Ease.

In the summer, the idea of taking some time to spend with family, play on the beach, or just get away from it all is tempting. Who couldn’t use a break from the worries and stresses of life?

Unfortunately, this leaves your home open to potential threats, like burglaries. In 2022, there were more than 800,000 burglaries reported to the FBI; and most of these burglaries happened in the summer. Thankfully, there are some things that you can do to “vacation-proof” your home before you set out that can give you some peace of mind. Here are some suggestions.

Install a Security System

Having a security system is a major deterrent for burglars who are looking for a home that may be easy to enter. These systems use sensors and cameras to detect any kind of possible intruder. Once the system is triggered, it will alert the company that monitors your system 24/7 or notify you via mobile alerts. 

At Instant Alarm, we are committed to providing your home with top-of-the-line custom security. Our consultants can work with you and determine what your family and home needs are. You can pick from various options such as door and window alarms or a more comprehensive package that includes surveillance cameras, wireless access, and 24/7 central monitoring. 

Install Automated Outdoor and Indoor Lighting

One of the major giveaways to criminals when a homeowner is away on vacation, is that the house looks vacant. Lighting can be a method to fool any potential burglar into thinking you are at home. Motion sensor lighting around the perimeter of your home is a great place to start. 

The illumination can alert neighbors that someone is on your property and scare away intruders. Interior lighting that is set up to activate at certain hours is also a smart idea. Homes that have smart technology can even set up a system that allows for certain lights in certain rooms to go on and off according to a schedule set by the owner.

Maintain Landscaping and Normal Activities

When a lawn that is usually well-manicured is suddenly unkempt, it might notify burglars you’re not home. Keep the lawn cut and alert the postal service that you will be away and to hold your mail. You may also want to let the local police department and friends and family who don’t live with you know of your plans as well.

Check Environmental Sensors

It’s always a good idea to check your smoke detector and CO alarms before you head off just to be sure they are working. Some homes even have heat and water sensors that can alert homeowners while they are away. At Instant Alarm, we provide our customers with smoke and heat detector home installations to detect chances of fire or carbon monoxide. Fire alarm systems will be monitored by operators at Instant Alarm’s central monitoring station. 

Take Care of Last Minute Items

Right before you head out the door, remove that hidden spare key, turn down your thermostat, get any valuables out of sight, and unplug any non-essential electronics. It may seem like a pain but you will be happy if there is an incident and you have done these small last-minute things. Who knows when there might be a storm that causes an electrical surge or if someone is able to break in with your spare key while you aren’t there?

Do you need help securing your home for your next vacation? Call Instant Alarm and talk to one of our specialists today. Call us at 800-499-9070 or visit our website.