Seven Steps to Home Security While on Vacation
While there is no such thing as a burglar-proof home, there are steps that can be taken to deter burglars from choosing your home and focusing on an easier target. Below are seven steps to better home security while on vacation.
Step #1 Put your mail on hold.
If you cannot arrange to have a trusted neighbor, friend or relative stop by and take the mail in, be sure to suspend delivery of your mail. An overflowing mailbox is a sure sign that no one has been home in a couple of days. Even if you have a mail slot in your door instead of a mailbox, you still may want to consider doing this if anyone can look through a window and see the mail piling up. A number of modern decorative doors have windows that would allow someone to see mail collecting. In any case, remember to notify the post office to stop your mail a couple of days before you leave.
Step #2 Put your lights on a timer.
Timers come in a wide variety from sophisticated programmable models to simple devices that you would plug a lamp into. It's best to have two or three rooms equipped so the lights go on and off at random times. It is also a good idea to leave a light in the kitchen on all the time, as the kitchen is one room that tends to have lights on most frequently.
Step #3 Make sure all doors & windows are locked.
Check that all windows and doors are secure and locked. It may seem obvious, but often in a rush to leave, this can be overlooked. If you have an alarm system, make certain that it is set and all zones are armed. Many modern systems offer enhanced security modes for when you are away. You should also notify your alarm monitoring company that you will be away.
Step #4 Put your newspaper on hold.
Newspapers sitting on your driveway or steps indicate your absence. When you call the newspaper do not specifically tell them that you will be away. In fact, other than the local police, your alarm monitoring company, a trusted neighbor, and the post office, it's best not to mention that you will be away from your home.
Step #5 Leave a stereo on or a programmable TV.
An empty house will lack the normal noise and vibration that result from normal conversation and activity. A radio turned to a talk station will provide noise consistent with someone being home. The same effect is created by having a television turn itself on in the afternoon and evening. Modern televisions are quite energy efficient and it is not that expensive to leave a TV on for a couple of hours.
Step #6 Change your answering machine message.
Truthfully, your phone message should never say that you are not home. Set the machine to answer in four rings, answering too soon or too late can indicate nobody is home. It is also a good idea to turn down the ringer or shut if off entirely.
Step #7 Make a quick home security checklist.
In order to be certain you have not forgotten to complete any of these steps it is best to make a check-list of things to do before you walk out the door. It takes five minutes or less and will help ensure you do not skip any important steps in securing your home. Making a list may also help remind you of important non-security related tasks such as leaving food for the cat or watering the houseplants.
Compliments of Karate World - Martial Arts for Life, 1260 Springfield Ave., New Providence. We are proud to provide free anti-abduction training, women's personal protection seminars, anti-bullying education, and personal protection strategies for local schools, community groups, clubs, and youth / women's organizations. For more information contact us at www.BeginKarate.com or at (909) 464 - 2836.
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