As the holiday season approaches, many of us plan to spend time with family and friends, often away from home. However, this also means our homes are left unattended, making them more vulnerable to break-ins. No one likes to worry about their homes and valuable items when they are on a vacation. Luckily, there are easy and trusted ways you can make your home secure with a little help from neighours and smart home security.
Here are 10 ways you can foolproof your home this holiday season:
1. Smart Home Automation: Your Digital Watchdog
Smart security systems can include automated lights, security cameras, and smart locks, all controlled from your smartphone. It not only deters potential intruders but also allows you to monitor your home remotely. For example, smart lights can be programmed to turn on and off at specific times to make it look like someone’s living inside.
2. Strengthen Your Doors and Windows
Your home’s first line of defense is its doors and windows. Double check that all doors have sturdy frames and protected hinges. You can also install a deadbolt for added security. Windows should have locks, and for ground-level windows, install window sensors or break-resistant glass.
3. Be Discreet on Social Media
While it’s tempting to share your holiday experiences in real-time on social media, doing so can alert burglars that your house is empty. It’s safer to share your memories after you return. Also inform your neighbours to mention about you going on a vacation if a random person stops by.
4. Use Timers on Electronics
Timers aren’t just for lights. You can connect them to TVs or radios to create the illusion of someone being home. It is a simple trick and while it needs a bit of an investment to set up, it is very effective in keeping burglars away.
5. Secure Your Wi-Fi Network
An unsecured Wi-Fi network is a gateway for hackers to access your personal and home security information. Ensure your network is secure, use strong passwords, and consider a VPN for additional security. It is even more important if you have kids who have access to tablets as they might click a random ad, which can then lead to you being hacked.
6. Don’t Forget the Garage
Garages are often overlooked, yet they provide another entry point to your home. Always keep your garage doors closed and locked. If you have a security system, make sure it includes your garage.
7. Maintain Your Yard
A well-maintained yard gives the impression of an occupied home. If you’re away for an extended period, hire someone to mow your lawn or shovel snow. Clear any shrubs around the house boundary which could be used as a hiding spot. You can also add solar-powered light along the walkway to make it difficult to hide.
8. Notify a Trusted Neighbor
Inform a trusted neighbor or friend about your travel plans. They can keep an eye on your house, collect your mail, and report any suspicious activity. Mail that hasn’t been picked up for a while is a sign that no one’s living in the house.
9. Keep Valuables Out of Sight
Before leaving, ensure that valuable items are not visible from the outside. Store them in a safe or a less obvious place. You can also use a decoy safe, which is a safe that looks like everyday household items but has hidden compartments. Burglars often go straight to the safe and don’t spend too much time snooping around.
10. Consider a Professional Home Security System
Nothing beats the peace of mind that a professionally installed home security system offers. While it comes with a big installation cost, there are a lot of systems that let you customize the system to your security needs. They often include 24/7 monitoring and can immediately alert authorities in case of a break-in as part of their monthly subscription.
For more holiday home security tips, visit Cablatel Montreal.
