Leaving for Vacation: Protect the Security of Your Home

• Before you leave for vacation be sure you physically secure and check all windows and doors. Also, leave a key with your most trusted neighbor in case they need to check on your house while you’re gone.

• Always make it seem like you’re home, even though you’re not. Be sure to never announce your absence on an answering machine or via a door note.

• Keep your garage door closed so no one can tell your car is missing.

• Leave a light or even a radio on while you’re away, especially at night.

• You can set a timer on your interior lights to have them come on at various times.

• Never keep a spare key under a flower pot, under a mat or over a door frame. Be sure if you do keep a spare key hidden that it’s in a very uncommon place.

• Be sure you’ll be getting no deliveries while you’re gone.

• Don’t forget to arrange for lawn care. Also, get your trusted neighbor to remove any flyers solicitors might leave, or your newspaper.

• Have the post office hold your mail or have someone else pick it up for you until you return.

• Tell your closest neighbors you’re going out of town and ask them to watch your home. By leaving them a key they can enter the home if there’s an emergency or even turn lights off and on periodically.

• When you get back from your trip, be sure you inspect your home upon your return. Look for signs of entry or missing items. If you notice anything stray, be sure to call the police immediately. It’s a good idea to wait outside the home until help arrives and when they do be sure to allow them to collect fingerprints. Be sure not to allow anyone to walk on the lawn until the police have left as well.