Text Version
Printer Friendly
During the holidays, people travel far and wide to visit family and friends. While traveling, the last thing you want to be thinking of is what is going on back at your house. That’s why it’s important to take steps to secure your home before heading out on your holiday journey.
One of the most sure-fire signs that a home is unoccupied is mail and newspapers piling up. Fortunately, this is something that is very easy to fix. All it takes is a call to your newspaper to have them stop delivery while you’re away. This can also help extend your subscription, as many newspapers will add the days you missed to the end of your subscription. To have your mail held, fill out a simple form at the post office.
Another sign to possible intruders that owners are away from home is the lights always being off at night. Fortunately, this is also an easy fix. Simply purchase an inexpensive outlet timer at a local hardware store and plug it into a lamp. Set it to turn on for a couple of hours every night after dark. This will make it look like someone is in the house even if you’re miles away.
It’s also a good idea to have a trusted neighbor or family member who will be in town look after your house. Have them check periodically for signs of break in or other trouble. Your local police or sheriff’s department may also have a courtesy patrol program if you let them know you are away. Call the department’s main business number to check for this service – do not call 9-1-1.
Finally, make sure all doors and windows in your home are locked. This includes windows on upper stories, doors connecting the house and garage and sliding glass doors. Each of these items is commonly forgotten and makes an easy entry point into your home.
Following these few simple tips will give you piece of mind this holiday season and help to make sure that your home is safe while you are away.