Need to leave your home for a while? No matter how long or short your travel is, be it because of business or pleasure; one should be wary whenever leaving their houses unattended. With all the bad things that can happen to a home unmanned by its settlers like robberies, burglaries, and even accidents, one must be prepared to make sure none of these horrific incidents will happen while you’re out.
1. Take advantage of smart technologies
There are lots of innovations nowadays that can help secure your home. Install burglar alarms, as researchers have already proven that these devices can significantly help in stopping criminals from breaking in. A home security audit can help ease your worries when it comes to keeping your home secure.
Place motion detector lights outside of the house, as any movement can trigger them to turn on, and no robber would want that. Use lights and smart appliances that turn on and off on schedule to make it seem the house is not empty, even if it is.
2. Ask for help from people you trust
Mails, newspapers, and other deliveries should either be put on hold, scheduled or delivered to family, friends or a neighbor you trust. A house where these things are left alone in the garage or by the door is a quick giveaway that no one has been home for quite some time. Ask someone to take out the trash during trash collecting day and someone you can leave a house key to and your alarm password and settings so as not to accidentally trigger your alarms.
Also, have someone park a car in the driveway, to create an illusion that someone is inside the house. If you are out for a bit longer, a house sitter is your best bet. To keep your lawns clean and make it seem like someone is always home taking care of it, hire lawn care.
3. Check before lockdown.
Before leaving the house, make sure to secure everything – doors and windows are locked, alarms are appropriately turned on, electric nothing can cause fire or flooding, and house keys are not left outside. Call an emergency locksmith if your locks have problems. If your car is staying at the airport, avoid going and leaving your mobile GPS as this can lead strangers or bad guys to your home.
As for answering machines, say can’t come to the phone right now, but that you’ll get back to them the soonest time you can. Don’t leave a clue as to how long you’ll be gone, as you’ll never know who’s been calling and keeping an eye on your property.
4. Tip the police, not the public
You don’t have to post everything on social media, most especially your current location. Wait for your return before posting pics and updating your whereabouts. Let the police know you’ll be out of town, and provide your number and your house sitter’s number if any just in case an emergency comes in.
Like most events, it is better safe than sorry, so make sure the property you call home is sound and safe. It is, after all, one of your most prized possession.
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