Protecting Your Home While On Vacation
Security tips from the experts at FCS SecurityHappy Vacations can be spoiled if you return to a ransacked home. Unoccupied dwellings are a favourite target for a thief. Precautions for the safekeeping of your home while your family is away on vacation can provide the important factors of safety and peace of mind.
� Discontinue newspapers and other deliveries by phone or in person ahead of time. Do Not Leave Notes!
� Inform the post office to hold all mail during your absence.
� Let trusted neighbours know of your vacation. Ask them to be alert of suspicious persons and activity around your home.
� Leave a key with a trusted neighbour to periodically inspect your home. Ask them to vary the position of blinds and drapes and collect all junk mail collected in the mailbox and on the front step.
� If leaving a vehicle at home, ask a trusted neighbour to change position of the vehicle every day or for them to park in your driveway so it appears someone is home.
� Ensure that all doors have security rated deadbolt locks.
� Always lock the door to your attached garage and from the garage to the house.
� Sliding doors and windows should be pinned for double security. This can be done by drilling a small hole through the inside window frame and into the outside frame. A nail can then be placed in the hole to secure the window or sliding door.
� Overhead garage doors should be secured. Disconnect power on electric garage doors to prevent chance opening by other transmitters.
� Automatic timing devices should be installed to activate lights in certain areas of your home. Vary the timers to come on at different times.
� Examine your house from the street and make sure no valuables, like expensive electronics or artwork, are visible from the street. If a passerby can see your belongings, so can criminals.
� Never leave a message on your answering machine saying you are on vacation.
� Keep the perimeter of your home well lighted.
� Turn the ringer on your telephone to lowest setting.
� All tools & ladders should be out of sight and locked up.
� Unplug all electrical appliances and televisions to prevent against a fire hazard.
� Set thermostat to maintain a reasonable temperature.
� Turn off the water to your washing machine.
� If you have a home security system, make sure it is activated when you leave. Leave alternate phone numbers with your security company and inform them of your absence.Enjoy a safe and happy vacation!