Finally getting away for some r&r should be a great feeling – and it can be when you take the necessary steps. Here are three great ways to help keep your home safe while you enjoy some much needed time away.
1. Social media
Believe it or not this is one of the quickest ways to invite burglars to your home. While you may be smart enough to not post that you are sipping a Mai Tai with your toes in the sand thousands of miles from home, your kids might not be.
There are a ton of apps out there that specifically market to kids. And even though you may have thought you did your job and set child locks on your childs phone, a conversation can be more effective.
We were recently at the lake house where I had committed to no technology (finally!). My nine year bounced down the stairs and sat next to me. He was on one of his apps, one we set up together that I normally monitor. He had been posting pics of our trip and since I hadn’t checked my phone, I was unaware. I knew to turn off his geo on his phone previously but still, his photos with hashtags were advertising we were away.
I wanted to delete all of the apps and save myself the headache but at the end of the day, that is a bandaid. So we talked about it again instead. We talked about hashtags and what they do. We talked about sharing and when it’s appropriate. And we removed the photos he had posted.
If you do plan to share photos of your trip be sure to include that you are now home in your post ex: “What a great vacation we had but it’s nice to be home”.
2. Be Neighborly
In our neighborhood we make an effort to know each other, to support each other and to look out for one another. Your neighbors are one of your best defenses. Especially the ones who are home all day and night.
Next time you see your neighbor, be sure to say hi. Make an effort and know that you are helping each other. Less crime can help keep the value of your home higher and let’s not forget how much better you will sleep without the experience of a home invasion.
3. Lighting
If a burglar has a choice between a well lit home and a dark home, which do you think he will choose? Automatic lighting or a house sitter are great ways to give the idea that someone is paying attention at home. Outside motion sensor lighting, in the backyard as well, can also be helpful.
We hope you found these tips helpful. If you have more to add – please reply or comment.