Summer’s here and you're making travel plans. How exactly do you protect your home and all the personal property inside it while you're away? Securing your home while you're on summer vacation is essential to prevent theft, vandalism, and other potential issues. In fact, summer is one of the most common times for break‑ins, since many families travel and homes are left unoccupied.
Here are 10 important tips to help secure your home during your absence, keeping it safe and sound:
1. Lock all doors and windows: Before leaving, double‑check all entry points — including doors, windows, and garage doors — are securely locked. According to the International Association of Certified Home Inspectors, about 34% of burglars enter through the front door, often because it was left unlocked, so this simple step goes a long way.
2. Use timers and smart devices: Set timers or use smart devices to turn lights, TVs, or radios on and off at random intervals, creating the illusion someone is home. Homes without security features like smart lighting are up to 300% more likely to be burglarized, making automation a powerful deterrent.
3. Hold mail and deliveries: Request a temporary hold on your mail and reschedule any expected deliveries, or ask a trusted neighbor to pick them up. A buildup of mail or packages can signal no one is home. Package theft is also on the rise, with an estimated 64 million Americans experiencing porch piracy each year, so keeping your porch clear is essential.
4. Notify trusted neighbors: Let neighbors you trust know you'll be away so they can keep an eye on your property and report suspicious activity. Neighborhood awareness is one of the most effective crime‑prevention tools, especially during peak travel months.
5. Keep your vacation plans off social media: Avoid sharing your travel plans online before or during your trip, as this can alert potential burglars your home is unoccupied. Over 75% of burglars admit they monitor social media to identify empty homes, making digital privacy a key part of securing your home.
6. Install a security system: You may wish to secure your home with a security system that includes alarms and cameras if you haven't already. Homes with security systems are 300% less likely to be targeted by burglars, and many modern systems allow you to monitor your home remotely.
7. Hide or secure valuables: Keep valuables out of sight or locked in a safe, making them less tempting for potential burglars. According to the Federal Bureau of Investigation, the average loss from a home burglary is over $2,600, so securing high‑value items can significantly reduce potential financial impact.
8. Maintain your yard: Arrange for someone to mow your lawn, trim hedges, and water your plants while you're away. An overgrown or unkempt yard can signal your home is unoccupied. Burglars often look for signs of vacancy, and yard maintenance helps your home appear lived‑in.
9. Unplug electronics: Unplug nonessential appliances and electronics (TVs, computers, etc.) to reduce the risk of electrical fires and save energy. Electrical malfunctions are a leading cause of home fires, so this step adds an extra layer of safety.
10. Adjust your water: Turning your water heater to its vacation (or low‑heat) setting can save energy while you're away. Or you may opt to turn off the main water supply to your house, along with your water heater, to avoid potential water damage. Water damage is one of the most common homeowners insurance claims, especially during hot summer months when pipes expand.
Pool Safety Tips for a Staycation
Maintaining pool safety is crucial to prevent accidents and injuries, especially when children are involved. You can secure your home’s pool by installing a lockable fence or screen around your the perimeter of your pool. Consider installing pool alarms and safety covers for added protection. Be cautious with pool toys and floats, as they can create a false sense of security – always supervise children using these items and remove them when not in use. Adults in the household should learn CPR and first aid.
Keeping your pool regularly maintained also contributes to pool safety any time of year. This includes maintaining a balanced water chemistry, as well as proper circulation and filtration. Drowning is the leading cause of unintentional injury death for children ages 1–4, making pool safety a top priority.
Save Money with Burglar Alarms and Cameras
Depending on your homeowners insurance policy and the company you're insured with, you may be eligible for a discount if you have a monitored home security system. Many insurers will offer a discount because security alarms and cameras help deter and reduce the likelihood of theft, burglary, and property damage. Some of these systems may even offer early detection of fire or gas leaks, allowing you to further secure your home.
Protect Your Home While You're Away & Save Money
Taking precautions to secure your home during your vacation provides peace of mind and can allow you to more fully enjoy your time away with friends and loved ones.
To ask about possible premium discounts you may qualify for, contact The Windward Insurance Agency. You can message us anytime, get an online quote, or call us at (866) 231-2433 and we'll be happy to walk you through all your available home insurance options.
