Heading out for the day or going on a vacation? Be sure to keep your home safe with these tips from home security experts.
“[Some] actions, or lack thereof, can significantly increase the risk of a burglary by providing information or access to potential intruders,” Gene Petrino, a retired SWAT commander and co-founder of Survival Response LLC, told HuffPost. “By addressing these vulnerabilities, you can regain control and better safeguard your home against unauthorized entry and possible theft.”
From avoiding social media location updates to securing entry points, here are some key tips to protect your home while you’re away:
1. Avoid posting real-time location updates on social media. “Don’t let the world know your every move,” advised safety expert Rebecca Edwards.
2. Always lock windows and doors and arm your alarm system before leaving the house. Unlocked windows can provide easy access for intruders.
3. Mix up your routes and times when leaving home to avoid creating a predictable routine for potential intruders.
4. Keep tools and ladders locked up to prevent burglars from using them to break into your home.
5. Use timers for lights instead of leaving the porch light on all day, which can signal that the house is unoccupied.
6. Don’t let mail and packages pile up outside your home. Arrange for someone to clean up and pause subscription services while you’re away.
7. Maintain your lawn and remove snow to avoid signaling that the house is empty.
8. Avoid hiding spare keys under mats or flowerpots. Consider using a smart lock with a code instead.
9. Mix up the visibility of your parked car to give the impression that someone is still coming and going from the house.
Overall, make your home look secure and normal while you’re away to deter burglars. Use security measures like cameras and motion-sensor lighting to make your home less appealing to intruders.