How to Keep Your Home Safe While You’re Away: Essential Tips for a Worry-Free Vacation

Going on vacation is exciting, but leaving your home unattended can create anxiety. What if someone tries to break in? What if there’s a plumbing issue? Fortunately, with the right precautions, you can ensure your home stays safe while you enjoy your trip stress-free. Here are some expert tips to keep your home secure while you’re away.

1. Don’t Advertise Your Absence

Social media makes it tempting to share your travel plans, but announcing your absence online can be risky. Burglars often look for clues that a house is empty.

✅ What to do instead:

  • Post your vacation photos after you return.
  • Avoid sharing specific departure and return dates online.
  • If using an out-of-office email reply, don’t mention how long you’ll be gone.

2. Invest in Smart Home Technology

Smart devices can help you monitor and control your home remotely, making it look occupied even when you’re miles away.

✅ Recommended smart gadgets:

  • Smart Lights: Program lights to turn on and off at different times.
  • Video Doorbells: Get real-time alerts and communicate with visitors.
  • Security Cameras: Monitor your property from anywhere using your phone.
  • Smart Locks: Lock/unlock doors remotely if someone needs access.

Bonus Tip: If you have a home assistant like Alexa or Google Home, set up routines that play random sounds (like a dog barking or TV chatter) at different times of the day.

3. Make Your Home Look Occupied

An empty home is an easy target, so create the illusion that someone is still inside.

✅ How to do this:

  • Have a trusted neighbor pick up your mail and newspapers to prevent an overflow.
  • Ask a friend or relative to park in your driveway occasionally.
  • Use timers for lights, TVs, and even radios to mimic daily activity.

Pro Tip: If you’re gone for an extended period, arrange for lawn maintenance or snow removal so your home doesn’t look abandoned.

4. Secure All Entry Points

Before leaving, double-check that all doors and windows are locked. An unlocked window is an open invitation to burglars.

✅ Extra precautions:

  • Install deadbolts on doors for added security.
  • Secure sliding doors with a metal rod in the track.
  • Reinforce windows with safety film or window locks.

Fun Fact: Studies show that 34% of burglars enter through the front door, so make sure yours is extra secure!

5. Avoid a Plumbing or Electrical Disaster

Burglary isn’t the only risk—unexpected household issues can also cause damage while you’re away.

✅ Prevent these problems:

  • Turn off the main water supply or shut off valves to appliances like the washing machine.
  • Unplug unnecessary electronics to reduce fire risk and save energy.
  • If leaving in winter, set your thermostat to a safe level (above 55°F or 12°C) to prevent frozen pipes.

6. Inform a Trusted Neighbor or Friend

A watchful neighbor can be one of your best security measures.

✅ What they can do:

  • Keep an eye on your property and report suspicious activity.
  • Check inside the house for leaks or power outages.
  • Move trash bins or collect mail to maintain the appearance of occupancy.

Extra Tip: Leave them a set of keys in case of emergencies—but avoid hiding spare keys under doormats or flower pots!

7. Use a Home Security System

A monitored alarm system can provide 24/7 protection, even if you’re thousands of miles away.

✅ What to look for in a security system:

  • Motion-activated cameras
  • Door and window sensors
  • Install Automatic Glass Tint
  • Alarm sirens
  • 24/7 professional monitoring

Did You Know? Homes without a security system are 300% more likely to be burglarized than those with one.

Final Thoughts: Peace of Mind for Your Travels

Vacations should be about relaxation—not worrying about your home. By taking these precautions, you can protect your property, deter criminals, and ensure a stress-free trip.

📌 Before you go, run through this checklist:
✔ Lock all doors and windows
✔ Set up smart lights and security cameras
✔ Inform a trusted neighbor or friend
✔ Pause mail and deliveries
✔ Unplug electronics and shut off the water supply

With a well-prepared home, you can truly enjoy your time away—whether it’s a weekend getaway or a month-long adventure.

Planning a remodel or security upgrade? Contact us for expert home improvement solutions to keep your home stylish and secure! 🚪🔒