While the family’s away, the burglars are out to play. It’s finally spring, and I don’t know about you, but I am in full vacation-planning mode.
The last thing I want to come home to is to discover I am the victim of burglary or damages to my home. As you are planning and preparing for your upcoming vacations, here are some pre-cautions to consider.
Lock Up & Set the Alarm
It seems obvious to lock the doors, but in your rush to find yourself in the beach chair that’s been calling your name, even this step may be easy to forget. Check all the doors, windows, and other entrances. Set your alarm to “away” & hit the road! If you don’t have an alarm, consider making it look like you do by putting out a yard sign or adding a sticker to a window or two.
Pick Up Your Spare Key
While I’m sure you’ve been really discreet in your key placement, you don’t want to risk providing easy access to any criminals interested in going shopping in your home. Get in the habit of keeping your key at a neighbors’ house or with a close-by friend. Don’t keep your key out in the open on your home’s property. Better safe than sorry, right?
Make it Look Like Someone’s Home
Purchase timers at a hardware or appliance store for your lamps & TVs. Set them to turn on and off at different times during the day. Leave one of the cars in the driveway and ask a neighbor or friend to get your mail every day or two. Prevent your home from being an obvious target.
Beware of Social Media
I know you think all your online friends are harmless, but you never know what criminal is hiding behind a profile picture of a 60-year-old woman. The truth is, your online world is not a safe one. When you post your vacation, you are broadcasting to the world that your home and belongings are vulnerable. Put your phone down for the week, breathe in the salty air, and share some #tbt’s and #latergram’s after a week unplugged.
Recruit Some Trustworthy Help
Ask a friend, neighbor, or house sitter to check in on your home periodically while you’re gone. Having someone stop by demonstrates that they house is not vacant to criminals and gives you peace of mind while you’re traveling.
With these tips, you’re well on your way to a safe and protected home! Unfortunately, it’s possible that even with these precautions incidents can occur. To ensure your home is protected, ask an agent about homeowners’ or renters’ insurance.
We want to help you protect what matters. Call (225) 927-0451 for a quote today.
