Secure Your Home Before Your Holiday

Introduction

Ah, the joys of going on holiday! Sun, sea, and sand are all wonderful, but what happens to your home when you leave it behind? There’s nothing worse than enjoying a beach day while worrying about whether you locked the door. Let’s not even mention the nightmare of coming home to a ransacked house.

So, how do you keep your home safe during your getaway? In this article, we’ll cover a comprehensive checklist for smart home users looking to beef up their home security before heading off on vacation. We’re talking practical tips, essential gadgets, and a few things you might not have thought of yet. After all, securing your home isn’t just about having a fancy alarm system—it’s also about making some smart lifestyle changes.

Key Security Systems for Your Home

A robust security setup is your first line of defence. Let’s be honest, if your basic locking mechanisms are flimsy, not much else is going to save you. Start with deadbolts on your doors. These are way more secure than the standard latch locks that come pre-installed. Also, don’t skimp on window locks—make sure they’re secure, especially on the ground floor. Add security sensors to your windows and doors for that extra layer of protection; they can alert you when entries are tampered with.

For tech-savvy homeowners, consider investing in a smart lock. The August Wi-Fi Smart Lock, for example, not only grants remote access but also allows you to provide virtual keys to trusted guests—great if you need someone to check on things while you’re away. Smart locks tend to be easy to install over existing deadbolts, which means you won’t be fumbling around with power tools when you could be preparing for your trip.

Lighting: Your Secret Weapon

Let’s talk about lighting—nobody likes to feel like their house is an abandoned fortress. Burglars often look for dark, unlit homes, so landscape lighting and motion detectors are crucial. Set timers on your interior lights or use smart bulbs that can be controlled via your phone. This not only deters potential intruders but also gives the appearance that someone is home.

Motion-activated lights on your driveway or near your front door can also startle intruders. A little light goes a long way. Plus, consider stringing up some lights outside for those evenings when you’re not home; it could put off even the most determined of burglars.

Keep Up Appearances

When it comes to securing your home before a vacation, it’s all about not letting anyone know you’re away. Burglars are sneaky but often not very clever; they look for signs of absence. So, what can you do?

1. Cancel your paper subscriptions. An overflowing mailbox is a red flag; instead, opt for digital alternatives while you’re away.
2. Ask a trusted neighbour to keep an eye on your property. They can collect post, water your plants, and ideally make it look like someone is around.
3. Don’t post your travel plans on social media until you return. It’s tempting to share your adventures, but broadcasting your absence is a burglar’s buffet.
4. Secure your garden. Trim any overgrown bushes that could provide cover for unwanted visitors. A well-maintained garden not only looks appealing but also shows that someone cares about the property. Goals!

Setting Up Your Smart Home Before You Leave

Smart home gadgets can do wonders for your peace of mind. Use apps to monitor your home remotely. Smart cameras can send real-time notifications if they detect motion, plus you can check in whenever you want—ideal for catching any suspicious movements.

Let’s not forget about doorbell cameras. They can offer a whole new level of awareness at your front door. Who’s coming or going while you’re off galivanting? You’ll know, at least virtually, plus those pesky door-to-door salespeople might think twice about knocking if they see a camera.

Final Thoughts

Heading off on holiday? It’s the time to truly enjoy life. But being away doesn’t mean you have to worry about what’s happening back at home. By implementing some straightforward security measures and investing in smart tech, you can relax knowing your property is safe.

As a final note, double-check everything the night before you leave. Lock your doors, close your windows, and maybe even do a little tech run-through just to be sure everything’s in order. Even if your setup is weird, which happens more than you might think, there are plenty of solutions available.

So, pack your bags, kick back, and enjoy your holiday—secure in the knowledge that your home will be waiting for you, just as you left it.