Keeping Your House Safe When Traveling for the Holidays
InsightsThe holiday season is a time for joy, family gatherings, and travel. Many of us look forward to visiting loved ones or embarking on a well-deserved vacation during this time.
However, it’s important to keep your house safe while you’re away. According to a 2022 study, there isn’t a significant tick in the number of burglaries during the holiday season, but they are costlier. The average value of stolen items is 5% higher in December than other months.1
Protecting your house from potential threats, whether burglaries, accidents, or weather-related issues, is essential for peace of mind during your holiday travels. In this blog, we’ll explore some valuable tips to keep your house safe when traveling for the holidays.
Lock All Doors and Windows
The first step in securing your home is to make sure all doors and windows are locked. This may seem obvious, but it’s a simple, yet effective, way to deter potential intruders. Be sure to check all entry points, including sliding doors, basement windows, and the garage. Consider installing deadbolts and reinforcing sliding doors for added security.
Invest in a Security System
A home security system can be a significant deterrent to burglars and provide you with real-time monitoring and alerts. Many modern systems allow you to remotely access cameras and sensors right from your phone, or you can pay for professional monitoring that will dispatch help in case of an emergency.
Notify a Trusted Neighbor or Friend
Inform a trustworthy neighbor or friend about your travel plans. Ask them to keep an eye on your property, collect mail and packages, and report any suspicious activity. This can also be a good opportunity to exchange emergency contact information.
Secure Valuables
Store valuable items, such as jewelry, important documents, and electronics, in a secure safe. If you don’t have a safe, consider renting one or using a safety deposit box at a local bank. Make a detailed inventory of your valuables and keep a copy in a separate, secure location.
Adjust Your Thermostat
Set your thermostat to a lower temperature in the winter to save energy, but don’t turn it off completely. A temperature too low can cause pipes to freeze.
Utilize Smart Home Technology
Smart home technology can enhance your home’s security. Install smart locks, doorbell cameras, and smart lights that can mimic the typical patterns of a lived-in home. These devices allow you to monitor your home remotely and receive alerts if any suspicious activity is detected.
Don't Broadcast Your Absence
Avoid posting about your travel plans on social media until after you’ve returned. Broadcasting your absence can inadvertently inform potential burglars that your home is vacant.
Protecting your home during the holidays while you’re away doesn’t have to be stressful. By taking a few simple precautions and investing in security measures, you can peacefully enjoy your travels.
This content is developed from sources believed to be providing accurate information, and provided by Twenty Over Ten. It may not be used for the purpose of avoiding any federal tax penalties. Please consult legal or tax professionals for specific information regarding your individual situation. The opinions expressed and material provided are for general information, and should not be considered a solicitation for the purchase or sale of any security.