How to Protect Your Home When You Go on Vacation

Going on vacation is a time to relax and unwind—but nothing ruins that peace of mind faster than worrying about your home while you’re away. An unoccupied house can be a target for burglars, suffer damage from unexpected events, or fall victim to overlooked maintenance issues. With a little preparation, you can ensure your home stays safe and secure so you can focus on making memories. Here are practical tips to protect your home when you go on vacation.

Make Your Home Look Occupied

One of the best deterrents to burglars is the illusion that someone is home. Here are a few ways to keep up appearances:

• Use timers for lights: Set lights, TVs, or radios on timers to create activity during peak hours.
• Ask a neighbor for help:: Have a trusted neighbor collect your mail, packages, or even park in your driveway occasionally.
• Hold your mail: If no one is available, place a hold on your mail and newspaper delivery through your local post office to avoid a pile-up.
• Keep curtains and blinds as usual: Don’t close everything up tight—keep window coverings in their normal state so it doesn’t look like you’re gone.

Secure Entry Points

A common entry point for intruders is through unlocked or weak access points. Take these steps to secure your home:

• Check all locks: Ensure all doors and windows are locked, including the garage, basement, and second-story access points.
• Reinforce doors: Use deadbolts and consider installing a strike plate or door brace for added security.
• Use smart locks or alarms: Install a smart lock that notifies you of activity or allows you to lock/unlock remotely. If you have an alarm system, be sure to arm it before leaving.

Leverage Smart Home Technology

Smart home systems add an extra layer of protection and convenience while you’re away:

• Security cameras: Install exterior and interior cameras you can monitor from your phone. Some include motion detection and alerts.
• Video doorbells: See who’s at your front door, even when you’re thousands of miles away.
• Water leak sensors: Detect leaks or moisture problems early, helping you prevent costly damage.
• Smart thermostats: Maintain energy efficiency and control temperature remotely to prevent frozen pipes or overheating.

Unplug and Protect Against Hazards

Before heading out the door, protect your home from other common risks:

• Unplug electronics: Reduce fire risk and save on electricity by unplugging unnecessary appliances.
• Turn off the water:If you’re gone for more than a few days, consider shutting off the main water supply to prevent leaks or burst pipes.
• Adjust the thermostat: In the summer, keep it a few degrees warmer; in the winter, make sure it’s warm enough to prevent freezing pipes.

Don’t Announce Your Trip Online

As tempting as it is to share your travel excitement on social media, resist the urge until you return:

• Avoid posting dates or countdowns:Criminals sometimes monitor social media for clues about vacant homes.
• Wait to share photos: Save those beach or mountain snapshots for after your vacation is over.

Peace of Mind Starts with Preparation

Taking a few hours to secure your home before leaving for vacation can make all the difference. From setting lights on timers to asking a neighbor for help, these proactive steps will help ensure your home stays safe while you’re away. That way, you can truly relax knowing everything at home is under control.