Summer is the perfect time to get away, whether you’re taking a weekend road trip or heading out on a long-awaited vacation. Before you leave, it’s worth spending a few extra minutes preparing your home. A few simple precautions can reduce security risks and give you greater peace of mind while you’re away.

Start with a pre-trip security checklist

Before you head out, take a final walk through your home. It’s an easy way to catch anything you might have missed.

Your pre-trip security checklist should include:

• Locking all doors and windows
• Closing and securing the garage
• Storing valuables out of sight
• Testing your security system
• Making sure your smoke and carbon monoxide detectors are working

Taking a few minutes to prepare can help you leave with confidence. If you keep a spare key outside, make sure it’s stored in a secure location, or consider upgrading to a smart lock with a keypad instead.

Make your home look occupied

An empty house is easier to notice than many homeowners realize. Fortunately, a few small adjustments can make it look like someone is still home.

Smart lighting is one of the easiest solutions. Set lights to turn on and off at different times throughout the evening rather than leaving them on continuously. Motion-activated exterior lighting can also help discourage unwanted activity around entryways after dark.

If you’ll be away for an extended trip, ask someone to mow the lawn or move your garbage bins on collection day to help maintain your home’s normal appearance.

Use smart security to stay connected

Today’s smart security technology makes it easy to stay connected to your home, no matter where you’re traveling.

Video doorbells and outdoor cameras let you check in from your phone, while smart locks allow you to lock or unlock doors remotely if needed. You can even integrate lighting and temperature controls to your security system and control the settings from your mobile phone.

This makes it easy to make your home look lived in and enables you to check on your property and make adjustments as needed.

Don’t advertise that you’re away

A few simple habits can help avoid signaling that your home is empty.

Before you leave:

• Pause your mail or ask someone to collect it.
• Arrange for packages to be picked up if deliveries are expected.
• Wait until you return home to post vacation photos on social media.

Sharing your trip after you get back lets you enjoy your vacation without broadcasting that no one is home.

Give yourself peace of mind before you go

The best vacation is one where you can focus on making memories instead of wondering what’s happening back home.

Whether you’re leaving for a long weekend or several weeks, a little preparation goes a long way. With a few simple security measures in place, you can spend less time worrying about your home and more time enjoying your summer getaway.

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