Fathers are often regarded as a human home security system. They’re called on to explore “things that go bump in the night.” They’re the human shields when something scary happens.
But what happens if you’re not there? Maybe you have taken your family on a road trip, or you’re away overnight. Get a little help and peace of mind for yourself and your family with these simple ways to secure your home when you’re away.
Don’t Broadcast You Absence
It’s temping to share your travel plans on social media, but save it until you get back. Whatever your privacy settings, it’s still possible for your information to get shared around or accessed by someone with nefarious intent.
Mow Before You Go
If you’ll be away during lawn season, mow a little lower than usual so the grass won’t get shaggy while you’re gone. If you’ll be away more than a week, arrange for a service to mow the lawn.
Stop Mail Delivery
Don’t let mail pile up until it bursts out of your mailbox. Put mail delivery on hold, or ask a trustworthy neighbor to bring your mail in. If you still receive newspapers in hard copy, stop—or ask the neighbor to bring those in, too. You can pick it all up when you return.
Put Inside Lights on Timers
Get timers from your local hardware or order them online. Set them so lights will go on and off in different parts of the house at times that would naturally correspond with your use of the rooms.
Add Motion Detecting Lights Outside
Install motion detecting lights above the garage, facing the back yard, and at the front entrance. Alternatively, smart lights that are programmable remotely might be a solution.
Disconnect the Garage Door Opener
If you have automatic garage doors, disconnect them on your way out. Burglars have figured out ways to use universal remotes to get automatic garage doors to open.
Do a Lock Check
Go around the house and ensure all windows are locked. Burglars who can’t breach a door will try a window next. Repair or replace any weak or loose door locks. Don’t leave a spare key hidden anywhere. If you’ve asked neighbor to watch the house, give them a key and ask them to keep it secure.
Get a Fireproof Safe
Lock up valuables and important papers in a fireproof safe. Choose a model that bolts to the floor, so a burglar in a hurry doesn’t grab the whole thing and make off with it.
Real estate investors strive to avoid leaving rental properties vacantfor good reasons. An empty home attracts the wrong kind of attention. The same risks apply to occupied homes when the owners are away, even for a short time. These simple ways to secure your home can supplement your home security system and take some of the heat off Dad to be the only line of defense.
