This summer, 90% of American adults between the ages of 30 and 44 plan on traveling. While you’re on vacation, you want the peace of knowing your home is safe from intruders. After all, there’s nothing worse than coming home to broken windows and stolen valuables. In this article, we’ll go over how to protect your home while you’re away so you can return from vacation without a fear.
Invest in a smart home security system
While the main goal of a security system is to defend your home from intruders, smart security systems can do so much more. The best security systems also feature voice, climate control, and lighting control, as well as two-way audio, keyless entry, and live video footage. You can sync all of your smart devices into one smart home hub.
Smart security cameras and doorbells automatically start recording when they detect motion. Plus, they can be programmed to send notifications to your phone so you can watch live.
Install a smart lock on your door
An important part of your smart security system is a smart lock for your door. Smart locks not only easily lock and unlock your door, but they also monitor who comes and goes. Some of the most high-tech smart locks use facial recognition and voice commands. Connect your smart lock to the accompanying app and you’ll be able to program the settings. For example, you can program your door to unlock when the dog sitter comes over to walk your fur babies.
Set a timer for your electronics
State Farm claims that setting a timer on your interior lights goes a long way in deterring burglars by making it seem like you’re at home. If you invest in smart lighting in your home, you’ll be able to turn the lights on and off from an app on your phone. The lights in your home will signal to potential robbers that someone is home.
Keep your vacation away from social media
We all love to share photos of summer adventures on social media, but posting your location can be a dangerous game. Making it known that you’re out of town is an open invitation for people with bad intentions. You can still share your Instagram-worthy selfies—just wait until you’re back home to post about your fun summer trip. Learn more about how to stay safe on social media.
Pause your mail delivery
One of the most obvious hints that you’re out of town is an overflowing doormat. Not only could your packages be stolen from your doorstep, but thieves might decide to break into your home for more. While you’re away, ask a trusted friend or family member to check your home daily for mail.
Alternatively, you can put your mail on hold. Simply fill out the Hold Mail Service form with the United States Postal Service. They’ll hold your mail safely at your local USPS facility for up to thirty days.
Disconnect your garage door
If you have a garage door that can be opened with a remote, disconnect it before you go. Consumer Reports recommends disabling your automatic garage door while you’re away on vacation. A robber can easily hack into the electronic signal and help themselves to the valuables stashed in your garage. Some garages even have direct access to your home, making the robber’s job even easier.
Leave a car in the driveway
An empty driveway is a green flag for robbers. If you and your family own more than one car, it’s a good idea to park it in the driveway. If you’re taking your only vehicle on vacation with you, you can ask your neighbor to use your driveway while you’re gone. You want to make your home look as lived-in as possible.
If you’re going to be taking a road trip this summer, check out the best smart devices for summer road trips.
More ways to keep your family and home safe
While you’re upping your home security game, it’s a good idea to protect your home and family in other ways while you’re at it. Make sure that you have smart security for your smart home, so you’re always in control of your devices. Learn more about cybersecurity and keeping our digital spaces safe, including from cyberbullying.
Check out more articles related to security on the CenturyLink blog.
