Home Security Tips for Carefree Summer Vacations

So, summer is finally here in Melbourne and most of us are more than ready to pack up the car and take off on a family adventure. Whether you are going on a cruise, visiting National Parks or simply looking forward to spending the day of summer with your dog at a lakeside retreat, you will enjoy this precious time only if you know your home is safe and secure.

Here are some summer home security tips to help you:

1. Think like an intruder

This means looks at your home and try to find a way in. If a ladder is left outside, put it away. Trees with branches near the windows give intruders access to your home, outgrown shrubs provide a place for hiding, so before you leave your home this summer ensure that you have trimmed those branches and shrubs. As burglars who target windows for entry often look for overgrown shrubs near it so that they can hide from neighbours. Look for anything outside your home that burglars can use and remove it. Also, remember that burglars cut phone lines which is why using cellular monitoring is much safer.

2. Get a home alarm system

Homes with monitored alarm systems are three times less likely to have a break-in than those homes without. Having an alarm installed in your home is a strong deterrent for potential intruders. Home insurance companies provide a discount on insurance if you have an alarm system installed in your home. However, when you are looking for alarm installation you need to find a reliable and reputable security partner and ensure that they provide you with maintenance services and tailor the requirements as per your needs.

3. Lock doors and windows

Front or back door is the most common point of entry for burglars, but open windows in summer make the best entry point. Keep all your doors and windows locked and before heading out on the trip do a double-check. Sliding glass doors are a favourite target as well. So having a glass break sensor is a good backup. You can also take advantage of energy management and automation technology now integrated with most of the home security alarm systems. This helps you to remotely control and monitor doors and windows and get notified in real-time in case of burglary.

4. Make it seem like you are home

When you are out on summer vacation, make your home look like you are there. Put your lights on a timer and schedule them to turn on and off at specific times throughout the day. Exterior lights are a great deterrent to intruders, who focus on rear and sides of your home. It is better to use smart technology for more control over your lamps, lights and other devices as you can control them remotely and it gives the perception that you are home when you are not and will deter potential burglars.

5. Know your neighbours

Having a good relationship with your neighbours is a good way to ensure the safety of your family as multiple sets of eyes and ears can help dither criminal activity and promote a safer area. Good neighbours watch out for each other and their homes. Whenever you are going out it is nice to tell your neighbours and ask them to park their car in your driveway. There are various neighbourhood watch apps available now which you can use to stay connect with your neighbours and use it to report attempted break-ins.

6. Do not post your travel plan

As tempting as it may be to share your holiday plans on social media sites, but do you really know who is reading your Twitter feed and Facebook status? You may have posted a picture of yourself on the beach, but the Geo-location on your mobile device can easily tell that you are thousands of miles from home and your house is empty. So, think carefully before posting you holiday pictures and plans online, especially if your home security settings are in doubt.

7. Think about how you label your luggage

So, you have packed your bags and ready to leave. You must have also labelled your luggage with name, address and phone number? Refrain from doing this, just add your name, mobile number, email address and destination details. Similarly, if you are taking a cab to the airport, it is advised that you do not discuss your travel details in-depth unless you know the driver well. If you have to discuss it, make it sound like you have a house sitter in your absence.

Your home is the most valuable asset, so it is important to protect your home when you are out on a vacation or office. Follow the above-mentioned home security tips and have a carefree holiday.