Burglars don’t go on vacation

When you’re on vacation, the last thing you want to worry about is a home break-in. So before you leave, take some simple precautions. They’ll help protect your property and give you peace of mind.

Lock all windows and use dead-bolts on exterior doors. Install security bars on sliding doors to prevent them from being lifted off their tracks.

Leave a few shades or curtains open to maintain a “lived-in” appearance.

Leave a car parked in your driveway and ask someone to move it every day or two. Even ask a neighbor to park their car in your driveway if you only have a single vehicle.

Set light timers in a few rooms so that it appears people are at home when it’s dark.

Stop newspaper delivery so that papers don’t pile up at your door. Also have your mail held at the Post Office or line someone up to collect it daily for you.

Store cash, jewelry and other valuables in a bank safe-deposit box.

Don’t leave an outgoing message on your answering machine announcing you are on vacation. Lower the volume on the machine and your telephone ringer.

Don’t post your vacation plans on social media.
Hold those vacation photos until after you return home.

Install outside lights, preferably with motion detectors.

If you can afford one, install and activate a security system. (Or at the very least, put security system warning decals on doors and windows to deter intruders.) There are simple home alarm systems available that you can install yourself and that link to your cell phone. Also popular are motion-activated door bells with cameras linked to your cell phone that let you see and talk with potential burglars and activate alarms.

Finally, ask your neighbors to keep an eye on your property and to notify you if they suspect a problem. Better yet, ask a friend or relative either to house sit or to stop by frequently. Even better, share our agency contact information with your neighbors so they can contact us if there is an incident.  We can start your claim process even before you return.