Sun, Surf & Security
ESSENTIALS FOR A PROTECTED SUMMER GETAWAY WHILE YOU’RE GONE
BY DAVID R. CORIO, REGIONAL VP OF ACS SECURITY
Traveling can sometimes create more worry than relief, especially during the summer.
It is easy to forget about securing your home with vacation planning, spending, traveling, and visiting out-of-town family and friends. It is essential to keep in mind that more burglaries also occur in the summer months than in the winter months. However, with a few travel security precautions and a bit of prep, you can keep your home safe and secure while you’re away.
1. MAKE IT SEEM LIKE SOMEONE’S HOME
Apartmentguide reports that the average break-in lasts between 8 to 10 minutes. Leaving signs that you aren’t home, like dark windows and an empty driveway, will make a burglar think they have plenty of time to find valuables in your home. Burglars are more likely to target empty homes and unlocked doors throughout the day, making frequent travelers prone to burglaries.
Using home automation solutions can change the scene of your home, from the outside in, which can deter burglars.
With the push of a button, you can set lights on a schedule, arm your system, and lock your doors from anywhere, which can help keep thieves at bay. Additional deterrents, including outdoor early detection systems, video surveillance systems, glass break sensors, and motion detectors can help detect a burglary before it happens or quickly notify you and emergency responders of any unwanted visitors.
2. UNPLUG UNNECESSARY ELECTRONICS & APPLIANCES
Electronics and small appliances pose a fire hazard, so pull the plug before going away.
While you’re at it, turn down the hot water heater and, if you’ll be gone for a week or more, turn off the water supply to sinks, toilets, the dishwasher, washing machine, and refrigerator and consider adding a flood sensor and automated shut off valve to avoid the possibility of floods.
3. TALK ABOUT TRAVELING – AFTER YOU TRAVEL
In the age of social media, it can feel like second nature to share your vacation excitement with your mobile app. Unfortunately, announcing your vacation dates online can also be an invitation to burglars. Never broadcast your travel plans online before or during your trip; save the joyful statuses and beautiful photos for after you’re home.
4. NOTIFY YOUR SECURITY COMPANY
Finally, the best, most effective way to keep your home safe and secure while you’re not there is to have a high-quality home security system installed and a set the alarm. Did you know that homes without security systems are three times more likely to be burglarized than those with alarm systems?
Also, if you subscribe to ACS Patrol, you receive up to 10 days of Vacation Watch Services. Vacation Watch Services include additional patrol support, walkarounds of your property to ensure nothing is out of the ordinary, and mail collection. A full mailbox and packages left unattended are sure signs to a burglar that you are out of town. If you are a current ACS Patrol subscriber, you may request Vacation Watch at: ACSWatch.com.
AND FOR MORE SMART HOME SECURITY VACATION TIPS, STICK WITH ACS SECURITY
Before traveling for your next trip, call your security company. Let them know you’re setting an alarm and you’ll be away. Also, clue them in if you’ll have a house sitter staying on the property (or a neighbor checking in). Leave an up-to-date list of people to contact (including your hotel info, if possible), in case of a security emergency.
If you’re looking for more ways to keep your family safe, check out our home security and automation solutions at ACS Security. We offer a wide range of home security options to protect you and your family. If you’re ready to discuss our custom solutions, email us at info@acssecurity.com or call us at 310-446-0527 option 3.