Prevent Burglaries

People often take vacations over the summer, which makes it no surprise that July and August are the months with most break-ins. If you’re going away for a little vacation, use these tips to help keep your home and property safe.

Think Like A Burglar
Take a look at your home and think about the ways you would try to break in. These spots should be reinforced with extra security. You may also want to consider concealing your valuables. If burglars can see something they want through a window, they may be more likely to target that home.

Take Inventory
Take pictures of your home and your belongings before you leave. In case a burglar does target your house, the photos can help to document any damage and help you create an inventory log with estimated values of your items. Both of these can be especially helpful for insurance purposes.

Secure Indoors
These will need to be adjusted if you have a house sitter or pet sitter coming and going, but, in general, you should:

• Update your security cameras or ensure they are working properly before your trip. If your system allows remote access, be sure that you have the proper device, application, and/or log in information to do so.

• Store your valuables in a safety deposit box.

• Lock all windows and close most of the shades.

• Use a timer for your lights to make it appear as if someone is still home.

• Set your alarm and security system before you leave.

To avoid returning to damaged property, turn off and unplug electronics, such as TVs, computers, or other devices, that could be damaged in the event of power surges. Depending on the length of your vacation, you may want to consider turning off the water and gas as well.

Secure Outdoors

• Don’t leave hidden spare keys outside of your home.
• Park your car inside your garage.
• Mow the lawn and trim the hedges.
• Move ladders or any other supplies that burglars could use to get to the second story.

Neighborly Love
If possible, get your neighbors involved. Choose a trusted neighbor or two and politely ask them if they can keep an eye on things while you’re away, and offer to do that same if they leave. You can have the post office hold your mail, or have your neighbors pick it up, as well as any ads or flyers left on your door. You may also ask them to mow your lawn, trim plants, and set out trash cans, even if they are empty. This will help to keep up the charade that someone is occupying the home. Lastly, consider giving your most trusted a neighbor a spare key in case of emergencies.

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