Spring break is just around the corner. If you and your family take the opportunity for a road trip or beach vacation, securing your home before you leave should be at the top of your to-do list. Worrying while you’re away or coming home to the aftermath of a break-in is a sure way to ruin your well-deserved retreat!
Let’s look at eight home security tips to protect your property while you’re gone. Some of these anyone can do, but the best security comes with a home security system. All Systems Integrated Northwest offers tailored solutions for 24/7 peace of mind, no matter where you are.
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1. Use Smart Blinds and Lights to Create the Illusion of Occupancy
Burglars tend to target homes that look unoccupied, so it’s crucial to make it appear like someone is home—even when you’re not. Smart lights and smart blinds are incredibly effective for this purpose. By programming your lights to turn on and off at specific times and controlling your blinds remotely, you can create the illusion of someone being inside.
Not only will this help keep intruders at bay, but it will also help you maintain energy efficiency. You can schedule your lights and blinds to operate according to your preferences, saving energy and keeping your home looking “lived-in” without wasting electricity.
2. Ask a Neighbor or Friend to Pick Up Mail and Packages
A growing pile of mail or packages on your doorstep is a clear sign that no one is home. Not to mention, those packages are easy pickings for theft. Ask a trusted neighbor or friend to pick up your mail and packages while you’re away. If you don’t have someone nearby, consider putting a hold on mail delivery with the post office until you return.
Additionally, many smart security systems feature video doorbells that can notify you when a package is delivered. With remote access through your smartphone, you can check the camera and ask a neighbor to grab it for you.
3. Monitor Pet Care or House Sitters with Cameras
A pet or house sitter is a great solution for taking care of your pets and home while you’re away, but of course, there may be concerns about the quality of care if you don’t know the person well. With indoor and outdoor cameras, you can check in remotely and make sure your pet is being well cared for or monitor the activities of your house sitter.
Modern security cameras are equipped with features like motion detection, so you’ll receive alerts when there’s activity inside or outside the house. This helps you stay connected and ensures that you can intervene if necessary.
4. Alert Your Monitoring Company That You’re Away
If you have a professionally monitored security system, make sure to notify your monitoring company that you’ll be on vacation. This allows them to pay extra attention to your home while you’re gone. When a sensor is tripped, such as a door or window opening, your monitoring service will know you’re away and can respond accordingly, dispatching authorities if needed.
5. Don’t Post About Your Vacation on Social Media Until You Get Back
In the age of social media, it’s tempting to share every exciting detail of your vacation with your friends and followers. However, broadcasting your travel plans online can signal to burglars that your home is empty and vulnerable. To keep your home safe, avoid posting about your trip until after you return.
Even if you’re not broadcasting every detail, be mindful of checking in or tagging locations in real-time. You never know who might be able to use this information to their advantage. It’s best to keep your travel plans private until you’re back in town and your home is safe.
6. Set Up Motion Detectors and Cameras for Extra Protection
For enhanced security, set up motion detectors around your home, both inside and outside. These sensors will alert you if anything triggers movement, and you can monitor the situation remotely through your smartphone. Many home security systems offer the option to stream live video from your cameras, so you can keep an eye on your home no matter where you are.
Video surveillance is particularly useful for monitoring high-traffic areas such as the front door, driveway, and backyard. For example, a video doorbell with a speaker can help you see who is at your front door, and you can even have a two-way conversation with visitors or delivery people while you’re away.
7. Use Your Smart System to Lock Doors
Before heading out on vacation, double-check that all your doors and windows are securely locked. With a smart home system, you don’t even have to worry about forgetting to lock the door. Our personalized solutions with Alarm.com can send you notifications if a door is left unlocked and allow you to lock it remotely with the touch of a button. You can also use smart locks to grant temporary access codes to a trusted neighbor or house sitter or disable the system remotely to ensure that only the right people can enter your home.
8. Make Sure Your Alarm System Is Activated
A smart security system should be armed before you leave for your trip. If you have an integrated system, you’ll be able to arm and disarm the alarm from anywhere using your smartphone. Some systems also allow for specific “away” modes that activate everything, including window and door sensors, motion detectors, and cameras, so you know that your house is secure no matter what.
Make Security a Priority This Spring Break with ASI
Spring break should be a time to relax and unwind, not to worry about the security of your home. With these home security tips and smart home technology from All Systems Integrated Northwest, you can ensure that your property is well-protected while you enjoy your vacation.
If you’re ready to upgrade your home’s security before your next trip, contact ASI Northwest today. We’ll help you customize a solution that meets your needs and fits your lifestyle. Safe travels!