For many families, summer vacations are the highlight of their year. Hectic schedules are put aside for rest, relaxation, and quality family time. No matter where you go this summer, family memories will be made that will last a lifetime.
A bad vacation memory is coming home to a burglarized home or vehicle. Since people travel often during the summer, homes stand empty more frequently. In addition, many people take walks or bike rides around the neighborhood and leave doors and windows open. Both scenarios make the home easy targets for burglars.
Use the tips below to build a simple vacation security plan, from choosing the right security setup to making your home look occupied and reducing obvious signs that you’re away.
1. Choose a monitored home security system. Professionally installed systems can include a control panel, entry sensors, motion detection, and glass-break detection, along with optional 24/7 monitoring. Depending on your provider and policy, a monitored system may also qualify for an insurance discount. Below are a couple of options for home security:
2. Consider a DIY security system. If professional installation is not the right fit, a self-installed system can still add strong protection. Look for options with door and window sensors, motion detection, and the ability to add professional monitoring for coverage around the clock.
3. Coordinate with trusted neighbors. Let your neighbors know when you’ll be gone so they can keep an eye on your house. They may also be able to cut your grass or water your plants while you’re gone.
4. Add motion-activated outdoor lighting. Well-lit home entry points discourage intruders and reduce the likelihood of break-ins.
5. Lock up valuables and important documents. Don’t leave valuable jewelry or paperwork lying around. Store them in a fireproof lock box or safe. It may also be wise to store especially important documents, such as wills, passports, and birth certificates, with a trusted family member or in another secure location.
6. Make your house look lived in. When you leave home, make sure it looks like you still live there. Leave your blinds and curtains in a normal position. Install smart plugs to turn lights on and off on a schedule and adjust that schedule while you travel if needed.
7. Park in the garage. Cars parked in the driveway are not much safer than cars parked in the street. Car thefts can take place in less than 20 seconds. Always lock your belongings in your glovebox or trunk. It’s also wise to remove your garage door opener from the car.
8. Remove stashed keys. Don’t store spare keys under the doormat or a rock. A lockbox or smart door lock is safer.
9. Pause mail delivery. Mail piling up is a clear sign that nobody is home. The U.S. Postal Service offers a free Hold Mail service that can pause delivery for 3 to 30 days while you’re away.
10. Avoid social media. Don’t post your travel plans on social media sites before you go and during your trip. Post pictures when you return.
Depending on your policy, insurance may cover burglary-related damages, such as home repairs and replace stolen belongings. Contact your insurance company or agent for insight into specific coverage available if your house is burglarized.
This article is intended for general educational and illustrative purposes only and should not be construed to communicate legal or professional advice. Further, this article is not an offer to sell insurance. Please consult with your licensed insurance agent for specific coverage details and your insurance eligibility. All policies are subject to the terms, conditions, limitations, definitions, and exclusions contained therein.