Millions of Americans take a vacation each year, whether for a well-deserved getaway or business travel. Unfortunately, these trips can turn into nightmares when a homeowner returns to find that their home has been broken into or a pipe has burst. Fortunately, it is easy to protect your property while traveling with these simple tips.
1. Keep the House Alive
Burglaries are more likely to target homes that appear empty so it is important to make yours look occupied. This can be done by leaving a few lights on, using timers or having a friend or neighbor check in on the house daily. In addition to making your home look occupied, these precautions can also help prevent water damage and other expensive issues that may occur while you are gone.
2. Never Broadcast Your Vacation
One of the most common mistakes people make is announcing their vacation plans on social media before they leave for their trip. While it’s tempting to share in-flight cloud photos, family pictures from far-flung locations, or destination snaps while on the road, doing so will only serve as a beacon for burglars looking for an opportunity to break into your vacant home.
3. Hide Valuables
Burglars aren’t just interested in stealing physical items, they’re often after your personal information as well. For this reason, it’s a good idea to hide any valuable items inside a safe or ask a friend to hold onto them while you’re away. This can help prevent identity theft, which can be a major problem for families returning from a long trip.
4. Unplug Electronics
Leaving electronics plugged in can lead to power surges that could cause fires or other problems. While it’s a good idea to unplug any electrical devices you won’t need while you’re away, be sure not to forget any essential appliances such as the refrigerator, oven, or washing machine. This will help you avoid costly repairs, but be sure to consult a professional if your appliance isn’t working properly.
5. Use a Home Security System
There are many smart home security systems on the market that can be self-monitored with a smartphone app, but it’s even more beneficial to use a system that is professionally monitored. A professional monitoring service can alert authorities if there is a break-in and call you if your alarm goes off while you’re away, giving you peace of mind and preventing costly issues from happening in your absence.
How to prevent graffiti and protect your property while traveling Install security cameras or motion sensors, Use anti-graffiti coatings on vulnerable surfaces, Keep the property well-lit, Utilize fencing or barriers and Engage neighbors or local authorities to report any suspicious activity promptly.