We’ve already taken out those sun glasses and bought those bottles of sun screen. The sun is beaming and so are we—waiting for that yearly trip away to the next state or country on our “to do” list. Even the family dog as a getaway planned with a great neighbor nearby, but what about the overall security and protection of our homes? July and August are the most popular months for travel, but they’re also the most popular months for home burglaries. And most communities across the country will experience a 10-19 percent increase in home burglaries over the next two months, according to the Burglary Prevention Council and FBI statistics.
Statistics also show about six of every ten COMPLETED burglaries take place through unlocked doors or windows. It seems like a “no-brainer” right? Of course, you’ll remember to lock the doors and windows when you’re away. You’ll be surprised to know the number of homeowners who forget those no-brainer moments due to the overall excitement and great anticipation to get away and start that summer vacation.
Here are some important tips and reminders for you before you pack those bags:
Make sure you have effective locks that are being used. Even the best locks can’t protect you if you don’t use them.
Do some yard work before you leave the house for an extended period of time. Trim your hedges and bushes so thieves can’t have a chance to hide out, or that you won’t give the impression your home has been left unattended and vacant.
Get to know your neighbors before your trip. Neighbors who look out for each other are among the best and least expensive defenses against neighborhood crime.
Remember to secure your spare. Leave your spare key with a trusted neighbor. Never hide it on the property. Burglars have more experience looking for keys than you do hiding them.
Let there be light and make sure all outside entrances of the home are well-lit. A timer or solar-powered lights on the front, back and side of the house make it difficult for burglars to hide.
Invest in an alarm. An alarm system controls access points to your home and lets you know if someone has invaded your space. Also, advise your alarm company that you will be away on vacation and no one will be entering the home during your absence.
Remember, burglars focus on convenience, concealment, and camouflage. Think twice before posting upcoming vacations on Facebook, Twitter or any other social media outlets. You’d be surprised how fast that information can travel on the information highway—and sometimes to the wrong computer screens. Vacations are meant to be fun times with the family and friends, not a time for convenience for thieves and potential burglars. Keep your homes safe and secure and make your trip a memorable one with these simple precautions.
