Home Security While On Vacation

A house that appears empty has the highest likelihood of being the victim of a robbery.  The last thing a burglar wants is to come face to face with a homeowner; if it looks like no one is home, your house is a prime target for a break-in.  Worrying about home security should not be a part of your vacation plans, so make sure before you set off that you have taken some basic precautions and ensure that your home alarm system is properly installed and in functioning order.

Following are some useful tips to consider when going on vacation and leaving your home unattended:
1.    Only tell people you trust the dates you will be out of town.  
2.    It is a good idea to purchase timers for several lights in your home so that they will go on automatically at night.  This is an good way to strengthen your home security system and will deter burglars from attempting to break-in.  If they see a light on in your home, they will most likely think someone is home and move on to the next target.
3.    Put a hold on your mail and newspaper delivery so that these items do not pile up on your front doorstep.  Uncollected mail sends a clear signal to potential intruders that no one has been home in a few days.  You could also ask a friend or relative to collect mail and newspapers on a daily basis.
4.    Leave a car parked in the driveway.  This also signals to intruders that someone is home.
5.    Set your answering machine to pick up after three or four rings.  A phone continually ringing is a sure give away that no one is home.
6.    If your neighborhood has a crime prevention program or neighborhood watch, be sure to inform them of your vacation plans.
7.    If you plan on being gone for more than a week, it may be a good idea to notify local police as well as your home security provider.

Before leaving your home for any extended period of time, make sure to double check that all doors and windows are securely locked.  Also, make sure that you do not have any hidden keys in the mailbox or under the door mat, burglars know to look in these traditional hiding places. This is also a good time to test your home alarm system and make sure that they are set.  It is also wise to secure all your valuables in a locked safe and make sure that nothing of value is visible from the outside windows.  Try not to leave anything tempting within eyesight of potential burglars.

If you do not already have a home alarm installed in your home, this would be a wise investment to make before setting off on your vacation.  There are a myriad of home alarm systems to choose from in a range of prices and security levels.  By following these useful tips and installing a reliable system, you can rest assured that you will find your home safe and sound upon returning from your vacation.