When you leave home for a vacation, your property can become more vulnerable to theft or unauthorized entry. Homes that appear unoccupied for extended periods are often more attractive targets for criminals, especially when there are clear signs that no one is home. Taking proactive steps before you leave can significantly reduce the likelihood that your home will be targeted while you are away.
With a little preparation, you can make your home look occupied and well cared for, giving you greater peace of mind during your trip. Planning ahead also helps prevent avoidable issues, such as maintenance problems or security oversights, that could escalate while you are gone.
Basic Security Tips
These basic but effective home security measures can help protect your home and belongings while you are away.
Be mindful of social media posts. Sharing travel plans publicly can signal that your home will be vacant. Consider waiting until you return to post photos or updates about your trip.
Have the post office hold your mail. Accumulated mail is a common sign that a home is unoccupied. Requesting a temporary hold helps prevent this giveaway.
Pause newspaper delivery or ask a neighbor to help. If you receive newspapers or flyers, arrange for delivery to be stopped or ask a trusted neighbor to collect them regularly and remove anything left at your door.
Remove spare keys. Common hiding spots are well known. Before leaving, remove any spare keys so they cannot be discovered.
Use a monitored alarm system. If you have a security system, notify the monitoring company that you will be away. Make sure all doors and windows are secured and the system is fully armed before you leave.
Maintain the appearance of activity. Arrange for lawn care, snow removal, or plant maintenance while you are gone. An overgrown lawn, snow-covered walkway, or neglected plants can signal that no one is home. Timed interior lights, smart plugs, and outdoor motion lighting can further reinforce the appearance that someone is present.
Avoid storing your home address in your vehicle or portable GPS. If your car is stolen while parked away from home, saved addresses can help criminals find your empty house.
The more occupied your home appears, the less appealing it is as a target.
Basic Home Precautions to Take
In addition to the steps above, consider these additional precautions before leaving:
- Set timers on indoor and outdoor lights to mimic normal activity.
- Lock all doors, windows, and the garage.
- Unplug unnecessary electronics to protect against power surges.
- Adjust heating or cooling settings appropriately for the season.
- Take steps to protect pipes from freezing during colder months.
- Ask a trusted friend, neighbor, or family member to check on your home periodically.
- Participate in a neighborhood watch program if one is available.
- Inform your home security provider that you will be away.
You may also want to document valuable items, review your homeowners or renters insurance coverage, and store important documents in a secure location. These small actions can be helpful if an issue arises while you are away.
A small amount of preparation can make a meaningful difference in protecting your home and belongings. By taking these simple precautions, you can reduce security risks and enjoy your vacation with fewer worries, knowing your home is better protected while you are away.