Going Away

While You're On Vacation, Burglars Come Shopping

Imagine coming home from vacation to find your home torn apart and your valuables that you thought you had stashed cleverly away in the back of the freezer gone. You would not be alone. Every year, nearly 5 million families become the unwitting victims of burglary while away on vacation.

Is Your Home Sending the Wrong Signals?

There are some simple precautions that can be taken to make your home less of a target to burglars. The best way is with a professionally installed security system in conjunction with the following ideas:

• Arrange to have someone mow your lawn while you are away.
• Have someone pick up your newspapers, mail and any packages that might be left at the door.
• Be sure to leave drapes and shades open -- closing blinds during the day sends a signal that no one is at home
• Trim bushes and hedges near the house to give burglars fewer places to hide.
• Have a trusted friend or neighbor house sit for you while you are away.
• Make your neighbors aware of your plans to be away on vacation.
• Lock all entrances to the home including garage doors and windows.
• Park a car in the driveway if possible.
• Timers can be left on to give the appearance of someone being home. Use a few in different rooms on different schedules.
• Leave the number where you can be reached along with a key to the house with a trusted neighbor or friend.
• Check to be sure outdoor lighting is working properly and consider motion sensors if possible.

Remember a security system can add a barrier of protection when you are away on vacation and can give you peace of mind to know that someone is watching out for your best interests allowing you to enjoy your time away.