Heading out on a summer vacation? It’s wonderful to take a break and get a change of scenery, especially after how challenging the last year has been. If spending some time away from home is on your to-do list this summer, here are some easy (and sometimes free!) home security tips to help you keep your house safe when you’re away.
#1. Replace the screws on your front door
Here’s a simple swap that can boost your door’s security. Change out the screws in your front door hinges if they are short, builder-grade screws and replace those with 4-inch screws. This makes it much more difficult for a burglar to kick in the front door! One study suggested that 65% of home break-ins occurred when a burglar forced the front door. Looking for a quick tutorial? Here’s your how-to guide.
#2. Add motion-sensor lights around your home
It’s easy and inexpensive to find motion-sensor lights, so this is a simple fix that can help protect your home! Add motion-sensor lights around your exterior doors, and even on the sides of your home too. You can also find lights that connect to an app and alert you when motion is detected. If you’re able to time your lights, it’s best to schedule them to go on at night.
#3. Get to know your neighbors
Here’s a tip that doesn’t cost a thing, and helps you get to know those living in your community! Having a good relationship with your neighbors is a great security benefit, because they are able to help you keep an eye on things, and they generally know who is coming and going. Once you establish a solid relationship, you can let them know when you’re going to be out of town and they can help watch your home for any suspicious activity.
#4. Install timed indoor lights
Leaving your indoor lights on 24/7 when you’re gone is a major sign to burglars that you might be away. With so many options available today, it’s easy to find just a few timed indoor lights (you don’t have to put them everywhere!) that you can use to schedule or control by app to change up the lighting in your home while you’re soaking up the sun.
#5. Be careful what you share on social media
We all love sharing our beautiful photos with friends and family, but think twice before posting while you’re still on vacation! Even if you have privacy settings on your social media, someone outside your network could see your post and realize that you’re going to be away. It’s safer to save up all those great photos and post them once you’re back in town!
If buying or selling a home is on your summer to-do list, get in touch with me at 8Z Real Estate today! I would love to have a conversation about how I can help support your home goals.