Planning for Summer Vacations: Ensuring Your Home's Security

As summer approaches, many of us are eagerly planning our long-awaited vacations. However, before you hit the road or board a plane, it's crucial to ensure your home is secure. Gone are the days when home security meant relying solely on neighbors to pick up mail or having a house sitter. Today's technology offers a myriad of solutions to keep your home safe while you're away. Here's a comprehensive guide from a realtor's perspective on how to protect your home this summer.

The Traditional Methods

1. Mail and Newspapers: One of the most telltale signs of an empty home is a pile of newspapers or an overflowing mailbox. Arrange for a neighbor or friend to collect your mail daily, or better yet, put a temporary hold on your mail and newspaper deliveries.

2. Pet Care: If you have pets, consider having a trusted friend or family member walk your dogs and care for your pets at your home. This not only ensures your pets are well looked after but also gives the appearance of someone being home.

3. House Sitting: Hiring a house sitter remains an effective way to keep your home occupied and deter potential intruders. A house sitter can manage daily chores and respond to any unexpected issues.

Embracing Modern Technology

1. Smart Doorbells and Cameras: Devices like Ring doorbells provide real-time video feeds and alert you to any activity at your door. These gadgets can be monitored remotely from your smartphone, ensuring you’re always aware of what’s happening at home.

2. Scheduled Lights: Automated lighting systems can be programmed to turn on and off at various times, mimicking your usual routines and creating the illusion that someone is home.

3. Smart Smoke Detectors: Modern smoke detectors can send alerts to your phone in case of an emergency, allowing you to respond promptly even if you’re miles away.

4. Home Security Systems: Installing a comprehensive home security system can offer peace of mind. Many systems now come with features such as motion detectors, glass break sensors, and 24/7 monitoring services.

Additional Tips

1. Communicate with Neighbors: Let a trusted neighbor know about your travel plans so they can keep an eye on your property and report any suspicious activity.

2. Rental Cars: If possible, arrange for a car to be parked in your driveway. This can give the impression that someone is home, deterring potential burglars.

3. Social Media Discretion: Avoid sharing your travel plans on social media. Broadcasting your absence can make your home a target for intruders.

By combining traditional methods with modern technology, you can ensure your home remains safe and secure while you enjoy your summer vacation. As a realtor, I understand the importance of home security and hope these tips help you feel more confident about leaving your home unattended.

Happy travels and stay safe!