Going on a holiday is a thrilling experience, offering a break from the daily grind and a chance to explore new places or relax in a tranquil environment. However, the excitement of a vacation should not overshadow the importance of safeguarding your home while you are away.
Securing your property is crucial to ensure peace of mind and prevent potential incidents such as burglaries or accidents during your absence. In this article, we will provide a comprehensive guide on how to keep your home safe while you are on holiday.
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11 Ways to Keep Your Home Safe During the Holidays
1. Lock and Secure All Entry Points
Before you leave for your vacation, it is essential to ensure that all doors and windows are securely locked. Double-check each entry point to your home, including back doors, sliding doors, and basement windows. Lodge deadbolt locks on external ingresses and strengthen sliding doors with a bar or rod to prevent them from being forced open.
Secure windows with sturdy locks and consider adding security film or bars for extra protection. Also, don’t fail to latch securely your garage and shed if you have one.
2. Invest in a Home Security System
Installing a home security system is one of the most effective ways to protect your home while you are away. These systems can include alarms, surveillance cameras, motion detectors, and even smartphone apps that allow you to monitor your property remotely. Remember to call a professional domestic locksmith for a reliable installation.
A visible security system can act as a strong deterrent to potential intruders. Make sure to place security signs and stickers around your property to alert would-be burglars to the presence of a security system.
3. Inform Trusted Neighbors and Friends
It’s good to inform a trusted neighbour or friend that you will be away on vacation. They can keep an eye on your home, collect your mail, and alert you or the authorities if they notice anything suspicious. Having someone regularly check on your property can provide an added layer of security and peace of mind.
4. Set Up Timers for Lights
A dark and unlit home is an open invitation for burglars. Use timers to control your lights to give the illusion that someone is still at home. Set timers for different rooms to turn on and off at different times, simulating the normal activity patterns of a lived-in home. You can also use smart plugs and apps to control your lights remotely.
5. Secure Valuables
Valuables such as jewellery, important documents, and electronics should be stored securely. Consider using a home safe to keep these items safe from potential burglars. Safes come in various sizes and can be anchored to the floor or wall for added security.
6. Disconnect Garage Door Openers
Modern garage door openers can be hacked, allowing unauthorized access to your home. To prevent this, unplug or disable the automatic garage door opener before leaving for your holiday. This simple step can help secure your home from potential intruders.
7. Be Cautious on Social Media
While sharing your vacation plans and photos on social media is tempting, it’s essential to be cautious about what you post. Avoid posting your departure date, destination, and trip duration. Broadcasting this information publicly can make your home an easy target for burglars. Instead, wait until you return to share your vacation memories.
8. Install Motion-Activated Lights
Motion-activated lights can be an effective way to deter potential intruders. Install these lights in key areas around your home, such as entrances, walkways, and the backyard. When motion is detected, the lights will illuminate, making it challenging for anyone to approach your home unnoticed.
9. Secure Sliding Glass Doors
Sliding glass doors can be a vulnerable point of entry for burglars. Reinforce these doors by adding a security bar or rod in the track, preventing them from being easily forced open. You can also install impact-resistant glass to make it more difficult for intruders to break through.
10. Consider a Video Doorbell
A video doorbell can be a valuable addition to your home security system. It allows you to see and communicate with visitors at your doorstep from your smartphone, even when you’re not home. Some models also have motion-activated recording, which can capture any suspicious activity in front of your home.
11. Consider a Rekeying Services
If you’re leaving for an extended period, consider hiring a professional locksmith to rekey your locks. This service ensures that old keys will no longer work, preventing any previous owners or tenants from accessing your home. Changing the code on your garage door opener and alarm system is also a good idea if applicable.
Conclusion
Securing your home while you’re on vacation is essential for your peace of mind and property safety. Following the tips outlined in this article can significantly reduce the risk of burglaries and other incidents during your absence. With proper preparation and vigilance, you can enjoy your holiday knowing that your home is safe and secure.
Remember that a little effort in advance can go a long way in ensuring the safety of your home and your cherished belongings. And if you’re in need of reliable and trustworthy locksmithing services when planning your holiday, consult AllCoast Locksmiths on the Central Coast!
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