Protect Your Home

When leaving for vacation of if you will be away from home for an extended period of time, here are some tips to keep in mind:

  • Be certain that you have locked all your windows and doors before you leave.
  • A residence with a "lived-in" appearance is a deterrent to burglars. Never leave notes on doors and have a friend or neighbor pick up your mail daily, or ask the post office hold your mail.
  • Leave one or more interior lights on and perhaps have a radio playing. Purchase timers to turn your lights on and off during your absence.
  • Purchase exterior lighting with photocell activation which enables the “dusk to dawn” feature to ensure lights are in use at the appropriate time of day. Additional lighting with motion sensors is another smart choice.
  • Never leave keys under flower pots or doormats, over the doorway or in other obvious places.
  • Inform a trustworthy neighbor of your absence so they can be alert for suspicious activity. Give them a key so they can periodically visit your home, even varying the positions of your shades and blinds.
  • Do not publicize your plans to leave. Whether you are involved in online social networking or part of a community social group, keep your trip private and wait to share your experience until you return.
  • Advertisements for house sitters MAY be a ploy to learn your travel plans. If choosing a house sitter, be cautious and consider hiring a licensed and bonded house sitting company and check their references.
  • If it’s in your budget, install a monitored home security system that can notify you if something goes wrong. Register your alarm system for free with the Sheriff’s Office as required by county ordinance.
  • Even if you do not have an alarm system, residents can register their residence with the Sheriff’s Office to allow authorities to access your emergency contact information if it is needed in your absence.