Planning a vacation is exciting, but leaving your home unguarded can cause concern. Empty homes are often targets for intruders, especially during peak travel times. Fortunately, with a few smart strategies, you can secure your home and truly relax on your time away. At Frase Protection, we’re here to help you protect what matters most. Here’s how you can secure your home in any season.
1. Make Your Home Look Lived-In (and Why It Matters Year-Round)
One of the simplest but most effective deterrents to break-ins is making your home appear occupied. Empty homes are easier targets for intruders who look for signs like uncollected mail, dark windows, or an overgrown lawn.
Here are a few ways to keep your home looking active and less attractive to would-be burglars:
- Timed Indoor and Outdoor Lighting: Timers on lamps, holiday lights, and exterior lights can create the illusion of activity. A variety of affordable smart light systems allow you to control lights remotely, adding versatility and more realistic on-off patterns.
- Automated Window Coverings: If you have smart blinds or curtains, set them to open and close at different times throughout the day. If not, consider installing a few in high-visibility areas—such as large street-facing windows—to give your home a “lived-in” look.
- Manage Deliveries and Yard Maintenance: A pile of packages or an overgrown yard can be tell-tale signs that nobody’s home. For longer vacations, ask a neighbor or friend to pick up packages and mail, or even stop deliveries temporarily through USPS.
- Bonus Tip for Winter: During winter holidays, arrange for someone to shovel snow from your driveway or walkway to keep a “normal” appearance and avoid signaling an empty home.
2. Invest in a Comprehensive Home Security System
A robust home security system is one of the most reliable ways to protect your property while you’re away. Today’s systems offer everything from simple cameras to sophisticated setups with multiple layers of protection.
- Security Cameras with Remote Monitoring: One of the most reassuring aspects of a security system is the ability to check on your home remotely. Many smart cameras allow you to view live footage directly from your smartphone and even send alerts for any unusual activity. Consider placing cameras at entry points, near high-value areas, or overlooking the backyard for a comprehensive view.
- Motion Detectors and Smart Sensors: Smart sensors can detect when windows, doors, or other access points are tampered with, and they alert you instantly. Whether it’s for your front door or a garage window, motion sensors add an extra layer of security.
- 24/7 Monitoring Services: Having someone watching your property around the clock can mean faster response times, better coordination with law enforcement, and, ultimately, peace of mind. In case of a breach or an alarm, our team is alerted and can respond accordingly, reducing the chance of prolonged security risks.
Extra tip: Make sure to prominently display security signage and place cameras in visible areas. Studies show that visible security cameras and signage can deter many would-be intruders. In a study by the Department of Criminal Justice and Criminology at the University of North Carolina, incarcerated burglars were asked about their target selection habits. The findings revealed that 25% of burglars would avoid a home with visible security system signs without further investigation.
3. Enlist a Trusted Neighbor or Friend
Even with the best technology, there’s something invaluable about having a trusted person check in on your home. A friend or neighbor can help manage unexpected issues, from a tripped breaker to a storm-damaged tree. Here are a few ways to enlist their help:
- Regular Check-Ins: Ask a neighbor to stop by once a day or every other day, walking around your property to ensure everything is in order. They can also water plants, take care of pets, or simply bring in any unexpected deliveries.
- Trash Day Assistance: To keep your home’s usual routine, ask your neighbor to take out your trash cans and bring them back on collection day. Keeping up with the usual pattern helps your home look lived-in and prevents drawing attention to an empty property.
- Emergency Contact: Provide a backup key to someone you trust and share your contact information in case of emergencies.
Combining human oversight with a security system adds an extra layer of protection, as someone local can respond to anything that requires in-person assistance.
4. Avoid Social Media Oversharing
Sharing vacation highlights can be fun, but publicly announcing travel plans on social media can signal to potential intruders that your home is unoccupied. While it’s common to want to share your travels in real-time, consider waiting until you’re back to post pictures and updates.
- Limit Your Audience: Make use of privacy settings to restrict your posts to a small group of friends and family.
- Turn Off Location Services: Location tags can broadcast your absence. Disable location tracking and avoid revealing specific travel plans online.
5. Secure Doors, Windows, and Entry Points with Smart Locks
Doors and windows are the most common access points for intruders, making it essential to ensure they’re fully secure.
- Double-Check Locks on All Entry Points: Even windows on the upper floors can be a target. Ensure all doors and windows are locked securely before leaving, and consider adding dowels or pins to sliding doors and windows to prevent forced openings.
- Install Smart Locks: Smart locks allow you to lock and unlock doors remotely and receive alerts if a door is tampered with. They can also be a lifesaver if you forget to lock up before leaving. Some systems even allow you to grant temporary access, making it convenient if you need to let in a neighbor or pet sitter.
6. Disconnect and Unplug Electronics
Unplugging non-essential electronics is a simple, low-cost step that protects your home from electrical surges, reduces fire risks, and saves on energy bills.
- Unplug Major Appliances and Small Electronics: Items like TVs, computers, coffee makers, and other appliances should be unplugged to avoid accidental power usage or surges.
- Use Smart Plugs for Easy Control: Smart plugs can be managed remotely, so you can double-check that everything is off after leaving. They’re a simple upgrade that offers an added layer of control and peace of mind.
7. Secure Valuables and Important Documents
Taking steps to protect your valuables within your home can provide added security and peace of mind.
- Invest in a Fireproof, Bolted Safe: A quality safe can keep cash, jewelry, important documents, and even small electronics secure. Choose a fireproof model that can be bolted to the floor for extra protection.
- Store Electronics Out of Sight: Portable electronics, such as tablets, laptops, and cameras, should be stored out of sight, away from windows or easy access points. This can reduce temptation for any opportunistic intruders.
- Extra Tip for Holiday Travel: If you receive high-value deliveries during the holidays, ensure they’re placed out of sight or directly into a safe.
Extra tip: As an extra precaution, review your insurance policy to ensure that high-value items are covered in case of an emergency.
8. Seasonal Adjustments for Enhanced Security
Seasonal changes can affect the security of your home, so take these extra precautions depending on the time of year:
- Winter Holidays: Snow-covered sidewalks or a driveway can signal an empty home. Arrange for a snow removal service, especially if you’re away for extended periods.
- Summer Lawn Care: Overgrown lawns or an unkempt yard can give away your absence. Have a neighbor or service mow the lawn if you’re on a longer summer vacation.
Enjoy Peace of Mind with Proactive Security
Leaving your home for a vacation doesn’t have to be stressful. By taking proactive steps, you can secure your home and focus on enjoying your time away. Frase Protection is here to provide tailored security solutions to protect your property year-round.
Contact us today to learn how we can support your security needs so you can relax, knowing your home is in good hands.
