Heading out for a vacation should be exciting, not stressful. But if you’re worried about leaving your home unattended, that can take away from the fun. Fortunately, there are simple steps you can take before you leave to make sure your home stays secure while you’re gone. With some planning, you can keep your home safe while you’re away and relax knowing things back home are safe and sound.
Lock Everything—and Double-Check
This might sound obvious, but it’s worth repeating: lock every door and window. That includes garage doors, sliding glass doors, pet doors, and upstairs windows. Sometimes the small or hidden entries get overlooked, and that’s exactly what someone looking to sneak in will be hoping for. Before you leave, walk through the house and check every entry point. Make sure locks are functioning properly and aren’t loose or damaged. If you haven’t already, consider upgrading to deadbolts or smart locks on your main entry doors for added peace of mind.
Use Smart Tech to Keep Your Home Safe While You’re Away
Smart home technology makes it a lot easier to keep an eye on things while you’re away. You can set timers for your lights, adjust your thermostat remotely, and even get motion alerts sent right to your phone. Video doorbells and outdoor cameras are especially useful. Just seeing a camera is often enough to make someone think twice. If you already have these systems, make sure they’re working properly before you leave. Check the batteries, clear any obstructions, and confirm your notifications are turned on.
Make the House Look Lived In
An empty house is an easy target. Do what you can to make it look like someone’s still around to keep your home safe. Leave some blinds or curtains partially open, but not all the way. Have a neighbor park in your driveway occasionally if they’re willing. Set interior lights on timers so they turn on and off in different rooms at night. If your outdoor lights aren’t already on a sensor or timer, think about installing those too. A completely dark house for several nights in a row is a clear signal that nobody’s home.
Pause Deliveries or Ask for Help
Nothing says “we’re not home” like a pile of packages or an overflowing mailbox. Before you leave, pause your mail and any scheduled deliveries. The U.S. Postal Service makes it easy to do this online. If that’s not an option, ask a trusted neighbor or friend to grab your mail and keep an eye on things. It doesn’t hurt to let someone you trust know your travel dates anyway—they can be your eyes and ears while you’re gone and can alert you if anything looks off.
Secure Valuables and Important Documents
Take a few minutes to store your valuable items and important documents in a safe or locked drawer. This includes jewelry, passports, birth certificates, and anything else you wouldn’t want someone to walk away with. If you don’t already own a safe, consider getting one that’s fireproof and bolted to the floor. Even if someone does get inside, they’ll have a much harder time getting to your most important stuff.
FAQs on How to Keep Your Home Safe
Should I leave a light on the whole time I’m gone?
Leaving a single light on the entire time you’re away might actually draw attention. Instead, use timers or smart bulbs to turn different lights on and off at various times to mimic a normal routine.
Is it okay to hide a spare key outside while I’m gone?
Avoid hiding spare keys in obvious spots like under a doormat or in a flowerpot. If someone finds it, you’ve just made it easier for them. If you need someone to access your home, it’s safer to give them a key directly or use a smart lock with a temporary code.
What if I have pets staying at home?
If you’re using a pet sitter, make sure they’re someone you trust and give them clear instructions. Let a neighbor know someone will be coming and going. Smart cameras or indoor sensors can help you make sure everything is going smoothly while you’re away.
How far in advance should I prep my home for vacation?
Start at least a few days before your trip. That gives you time to test equipment, schedule mail holds, and make arrangements with neighbors. Rushing to keep your home safe at the last minute can lead to missed details.
Do I need to tell my alarm company I’m going on vacation?
Yes, it’s a good idea. Letting your alarm company know you’ll be away can help avoid false alarms and ensure they take alerts seriously if something does happen. Some companies also offer vacation watch services for added peace of mind.
Libra Inspections provides home inspections in Central Illinois. Contact us to request our services.