Roger Morph 
One of the most effective means of keeping burglars away is to make it seem like someone is home. A dark and quiet house is an obvious indication that no one is there, and therefore, it is a target for burglars. Having timers installed on your lights to turn on and off at different times will give the illusion of normality. Smart home systems also allow you to control the lights, television, and blinds remotely to upgrade the illusion.
Cancel newspaper and mail delivery when you are not at home. Mail piled up in the mailbox or newspapers piled up against the door can be an indication that no one is at home. Where cancelling these services is not feasible, ask a trusted friend or neighbour to collect your mail and keep your house under surveillance.
Securing Doors and Windows
Windows and doors are the most common ways intruders enter, so these must be as secure as they can be when you are leaving the residence. Having working locks and installing deadbolt locks on doors will make them more secure. Window locks or security bars on the first-floor windows can discourage effortless entry.
Upgrading to smart locks will provide you with more security as you will be in charge from afar and get to see your doors. Some of the smart locks will even notify you if a door has been left open, so you will be safe at home away from home.
With a Home Security System
One of the most effective ways of protecting your house from burglars is a home security system. Any decent security system nowadays offers real-time monitoring and alert, so you can keep an eye on your property wherever you are. Placing security cameras and motion detectors at entry points will scare burglars away and be good evidence if there is ever a mishap.
Professional monitoring services offer extra security because they are able to respond to alarm signals and contact authorities if necessary. If you have a security system already, make sure that it is in good working order before leaving on vacation.
Alerting Trusted Neighbors or Friends
It is helpful to let a neighbor or close friend know your timetable so that your home will be safe. They can check on your home at intervals, water plants, and ensure everything is fine. Issuing them with a key is also helpful in case of an emergency.
It is also prudent to swap phone numbers so that they can reach you in case they have any problem. You can also swap keys with them or give them access so that they can keep an eye on the security system while away.
Organizing Outdoor Spaces
Your house exterior may also indicate whether you are out or not present at home. Lawn mowing and maintaining areas outdoors clean will serve to keep your house from looking unoccupied. If you are away for an extended period, have the yard maintained.
Outdoor lighting can also serve security by closing the door to the freedom for intruders to move around unseen. Having motion-sensitive lighting placed at points of entry and along walkways can discourage would-be burglars.
Organizing Car Presence
Leaving a car parked in the driveway can make it seem as though you are home. In case you need to leave a car behind, leave it where it is near a garage but not parked inside. It could also be best if you have your friend or neighbor drive your car from time to time so people won’t think that you are home alone.
Driveway alarm comes in wireless and wired options and can be integrated into home security systems. They are particularly useful for lengthy driveways or homes with more than one entry point, providing an additional barrier against trespassers.
Being Cautious on Social Media
Posting your vacation calendars on the internet unintentionally makes your home a target. Your potential burglars should not know you are away, so you shouldn’t post vacation pictures or announce plans for being away until after you return home.
If you have to notify close family and friends, resort to direct messages instead of making a public post. Altering social media privacy settings also limits who is allowed to see your posts.
Employing Smart Home Technology
Smart home technology will also provide you with an additional level of security when you are away from home.
Smart doorbells with cameras allow you to monitor and speak with guests remotely. Smart sensors can also detect suspicious movement and alert you with mobile phone alerts in real time.
By integrating smart security systems with mobile applications, you are able to control your home and adapt accordingly. In the event of a suspicious occurrence, you can react immediately by contacting the authorities or triggering security features.
Preparing for Unexpected Events
Prior to leaving, ready yourself for potential damage in the form of leaks, power failure, or bad weather. Turning off unnecessary electrical devices and unplugging them can reduce the risk of fire or power surges. Insulating pipes or shutting off the water supply can avert flooding in case of freezing weather.
It ensures that all is set for safety measures by checking the burglar alarms and smoke detectors before departure. If you happen to reside in an area where storms or other disaster situations are being experienced, locking up patio furniture and closing windows will help avoid damage to the home while away.
