5 Simple Steps for Preparing House for Extended Vacation

There’s nothing like working hard all year and then rewarding yourself at the end of it with a trip away somewhere nice. Though you’re sure to enjoy yourself on your refreshing holiday, there’s often that nagging thought in the back of your mind that your home is vulnerable without you there to protect it. That anxiety can increase further if it’s the getaway that goes beyond a few days. If you want full peace of mind every time you go away, then check out these steps below for preparing the house for an extended vacation.

Bluetooth Security Measures

A traditional door lock can only take you so far, but a smart Bluetooth door lock will take you further than you ever thought possible. Bluetooth door locks let you access your home using a personal PIN code, your phone, or a traditional key.

You can set the code, put a time limit on it, or change it whenever you want to do so. These smart door handles make breaking and entering far harder for would-be thieves than even the best standard ones. And if they have to work hard to get in there, those burglars will probably give up and look for an easier target somewhere else.

Hire a Homesitter: Preparing House for Extended Vacation

If you’re not ready to invest in new technology to protect your home, then call upon the more traditional services of a housesitter. There are now people who offer such a service for a living and, as a bonus, they can even take care of your pets.

A homesitter will look after your property as if it were their own, while also deterring thieves from targeting it. If you intend on hiring someone over the festive season, however, make sure you book them months in advance as that’s a busy travel time. 

Security Cameras

If the thought of not being able to see what’s going on at your house worries you, then it could be time to look at getting security cameras. With technological advancements, you can now view your footage from anywhere in the world, as long as you have smartphone or computer access.

Furthermore, the benefits of using security cameras are unparalleled when preparing the house for an extended vacation. You can keep an eye on your house and even get a visual description of any potential offenders. All you have to do now is think about the best places to install them. 

Don’t Leave a Spare Key 

In 2017, 2.3 people in every 1,000 in the United States became a victim of burglary. While you can’t always stop a determined burglar, you can minimize the risk by not leaving a spare key on your property. Burglars know the drill – check under the mat and above the doorframe.

Thus, if you leave your key in these places, you’re basically giving the thief all your stuff. If you’re going on vacation, leave a key with a loved one or trusted neighbor instead.

Light it Up when Preparing House for Extended Vacation

Burglars don’t like to be visible because when they’re seen, they’re often caught. If you want your home to be the least desirable one on the street while you’re on a lengthy getaway, then invest in lighting. Garden solar lights, security sensors, and even fairy lights can all make a positive difference.

As the shadowy corners of your home invite burglars, if you can get rid of them and make the presence of security cameras known, then you can enjoy peace of mind while you’re away.

The burglar will hopefully give up and go home or look for a residence that’s easier to enter somewhere else. You can feel good about protecting your home while away.

Final Words

In summary, you will never be able to make your property 100% secure. Unless, of course, it’s Fort Knox.

You can, however, still put measures in place to improve its security. Thus, never leave a spare key, invest in lighting and security systems, and consider a house sitter every time you’re preparing the house for an extended vacation. You can then sit back, relax, and enjoy your holiday without a care in the world.

What are some other ways to secure the home when you’re away for more than a couple of days?