Summertime is here and families are loading up their cars to visit relatives and discover different towns and attractions along the way. Before you leave, make sure your home is secure and burglar-free while you are away.

Be Social Media Savvy

It may be tempting, but don’t announce your vacation on social media. There are too many people posing as “friends” that are lurking for news that your home will be empty. You may even want to wait on posting those pictures of your family waving poolside until you are home. Don’t give anyone a chance to target your home.

Lighting is Key

Lighting your home is a great deterrent. A timer that can turn lights on and off while you are gone creates the illusion that someone is home. Don’t just leave random lights on in various rooms, someone watching your home will notice that pattern right away.

Having a timer for outside lighting is important too. A light on near the garage and porch areas deter would be criminals from lurking about. Motion sensor lights are good too!

Keep your Yard Clean

If you are going to be gone for more than a week, have someone come and cut your grass and make sure your yard is tidy. An unkempt lawn is another sign that you are away and could be an invitation for someone to cause mischief.

Enlist a Neighbor

Tell a trusted neighbor you will be away. Have them collect your mail and newspapers (if you are not stopping them) and take in any deliveries while you are away. Let them know how to contact you in an emergency and give them a spare key.

Secure Your Garage

Make sure your garage door is closed, you’d be surprised how many are left open in the excitement of departure. Lock any access doors and any doors that lead from the garage into the home. We recommend NEVER adding a lock or bolt to the inside of the garage door. It’s easy to forget you’ve done this when you are returning from a great trip and will help you avoid a costly repair if opened accidentally.

If you have a car that will be left at home, remove any garage door openers from it and place them in the house.

Double Check Doors & Windows

Do a final run-though before you leave and check that windows and doors are locked. That one seldom used side door could be the one that allows someone unwanted into your home. Also remove any spare keys that may be hidden outside.

Key Tabs with Smart Devices

Perhaps you already have some smart devices in your home. Maybe this is an excuse to get some more! When paired with your phone you can monitor and control lighting, see who’s at your front door, open your garage door for a delivery and make sure your AC kicks on when you return from your trip. A great way to stay connected.

We hope your summer is filled with many adventures. Let us know if you are in need of any updated windows or doors to help your home be secure and safe.