Home Alone Security: Top Tips to Protect Your House While Away

Leaving your home unattended, even for a short period, can evoke a sense of vulnerability. The thought of potential security breaches while you are away is a valid concern for homeowners. Ensuring the safety of your property and belongings during vacations or work trips requires proactive measures and a comprehensive approach to home security.

This guide aims to provide actionable and research-backed tips to enhance your home security before, during, and after your absence. By implementing these strategies, homeowners can significantly reduce the risk of intrusion and enjoy peace of mind while away. The information presented draws upon industry best practices and relevant data to offer practical solutions for safeguarding your residence.

Common Residential Security Threats While On Vacation

Leaving a house vacant presents several opportunities for various security threats. Understanding these vulnerabilities is the first step in implementing effective preventative measures. The following outlines common risks homeowners face when their property is unoccupied.

• Forced Entry: Burglars often target vacant homes, attempting to gain access through doors or windows. The Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) reports that burglary is primarily a crime of opportunity. Visible signs of absence, such as accumulated mail or newspapers, can signal an unoccupied residence, increasing the likelihood of forced entry. Strengthening entry points is crucial in deterring this threat.

• Theft of Valuables: Once inside, thieves typically target easily accessible and valuable items like jewelry, electronics, and cash. According to the Bureau of Justice Statistics (BJS), while lower-income households experience higher rates of burglary, the financial impact may be greater for higher-income households due to the potential for more valuable possessions. Securing valuables in safes or off-site locations can mitigate this risk.

• Vandalism: Beyond theft, unoccupied properties can be targets for vandalism. This can range from minor damage like broken windows to more extensive destruction. Vandalism can occur as a primary motive or as a result of a failed burglary attempt. Visible security measures can act as a deterrent, making the property less appealing to potential vandals.

• Mail and Package Theft: Accumulating mail and packages are clear indicators of an absent homeowner. Porch piracy and mailbox theft are increasing concerns, with thieves targeting valuable deliveries. The United States Postal Inspection Service highlights the importance of timely mail retrieval or utilizing services like mail holds to prevent accumulation.

• False Sense of Security: Relying solely on basic security measures or assuming a safe neighborhood provides adequate protection can create a false sense of security. Criminals may be aware of common, easily bypassed security systems. A layered security approach, combining multiple strategies, offers more robust protection.

Before You Leave: Preparation is Key

Proactive preparation is essential for minimizing security risks while you are away. Implementing these measures before your departure can significantly enhance your home's defenses and deter potential intruders.

• Secure All Entry Points: Ensure all doors and windows are securely locked. It is recommended using deadbolt locks on exterior doors and installing secondary locking mechanisms on windows, particularly sliding glass doors, which are often vulnerable. Reinforce door frames, as they can be a point of failure during forced entry.

• Activate Your Alarm System: If you have a home security system, ensure it is functioning correctly and activated before you leave. Familiarize yourself with the system's operation and ensure all sensors are working. The Electronic Security Association emphasizes the importance of regular maintenance and testing of alarm systems for optimal performance.

• Install and Utilize Security Cameras: Security cameras, especially those with remote monitoring capabilities, can be a significant deterrent and provide valuable evidence in case of a break-in. The National Crime Prevention Council advises placing cameras in visible locations to deter criminals and covering potential blind spots around entry points.

• Manage Lighting: A dark home is an invitation for burglars. Utilize timers or smart home devices to automate indoor and outdoor lights, creating the illusion that someone is home. The Illuminating Engineering Society recommends motion-activated outdoor lighting as an effective deterrent. Varying lighting schedules can further enhance the effect.

• Stop Mail and Deliveries: Accumulated mail, newspapers, and packages are clear indicators of an empty house. Contact the postal service to hold your mail and arrange for a neighbor or friend to collect deliveries. Major shipping companies also offer vacation hold options.

• Maintain Your Landscaping: Overgrown landscaping can provide cover for burglars. Trim bushes and trees, especially those near windows and doors. Experts suggests maintaining a clear line of sight around your property to eliminate potential hiding spots.

• Inform Trusted Neighbors: Alert a trusted neighbor of your absence and provide them with a way to contact you or a designated emergency contact. They can keep an eye on your property and report any suspicious activity. Reciprocity is key; offer to do the same for them when they are away.

• Secure Valuables: Store valuable items like jewelry, important documents, and collectibles in a secure safe or consider using a safe deposit box at a bank. Documenting your valuables with photographs or videos can be helpful for insurance purposes in the event of a loss.

During Your Absence: Maintaining Security Remotely

Even after leaving, there are steps you can take to maintain your home's security from afar. These measures involve remote monitoring and making your absence less obvious.

• Utilize Smart Home Technology: Smart home devices allow you to remotely monitor and control various aspects of your home security. Smart locks, cameras, and lighting systems can be managed via smartphone apps, providing real-time updates and the ability to respond to potential issues.

• Vary Lighting Schedules Remotely: If using timers, occasionally adjust the lighting schedules to make them appear more random and less predictable. Smart lighting systems offer greater flexibility in controlling lights remotely.

• Request Occasional Check-ins from Neighbors: If you have a trusted neighbor, ask them to occasionally check on your property. This could include collecting flyers, watering plants, or simply ensuring everything looks normal.

• Avoid Announcing Your Absence on Social Media: Publicly announcing your vacation plans on social media can alert potential criminals that your home will be empty. Wait until you have returned to share your travel photos and experiences.

• Keep Your Property Looking Occupied: Arrange for lawn maintenance if your absence is extended. An unkempt lawn can signal an empty house. Consider having someone mow the lawn or water plants.

• Monitor Security System Alerts: If you have a security system, ensure you have set up notifications to receive alerts on your smartphone. Promptly investigate any alarms or suspicious activity reported by the system.

• Secure Trash Cans: Leaving trash cans out for extended periods can indicate that no one is home. Arrange for a neighbor to take your trash can to and from the curb on collection days.

• Maintain Communication with Your Neighbor: Stay in contact with your trusted neighbor, providing updates on your return and any specific instructions. Their vigilance can be a valuable asset in maintaining security.

Returning Home: What to Check

Upon returning home, it is crucial to remain vigilant and check for any signs of intrusion or damage before fully entering. A cautious approach can prevent potential confrontations and ensure your safety.

• Observe the Exterior: Before entering, carefully observe the exterior of your home for any signs of forced entry, such as broken windows, damaged doors, or tampered locks. Note anything out of the ordinary.

• Check for Forced Entry Points: Inspect all doors and windows, including basement windows and any less visible entry points, for signs of tampering or damage.

• Be Cautious When Entering: If you notice any signs of forced entry, do not enter the house. Contact the police from a safe location. Entering a compromised home could put you at risk.

• Look for Signs of Disturbance Inside: If there are no obvious signs of forced entry but you have a sense that something might be wrong, proceed cautiously. Look for displaced items, open drawers, or anything out of place.

• Check for Missing Valuables: If you suspect a break-in, check for any missing valuables. It is helpful to have a record of your valuable possessions to quickly assess any losses.

• Document Any Damage or Loss: If you find evidence of a break-in or damage, document everything with photographs or videos. This documentation will be essential when filing a police report and insurance claim.

• Contact the Authorities: If you find evidence of a burglary or any other crime, contact the police immediately. Provide them with all the details you have observed.

• Review Security Footage: If you have security cameras, review the footage from your absence. This may provide valuable information for the police investigation.

Leaving your home unattended does not have to be a source of anxiety. By implementing a combination of preventative measures before your departure, maintaining vigilance remotely, and exercising caution upon your return, you can significantly enhance your home's security and protect your property. A proactive and layered approach, incorporating measures like robust locks, alarm systems, smart home technology, and neighborly cooperation, forms a strong defense against potential threats. Remember, securing your home provides peace of mind, allowing you to focus on your travels or work commitments without unnecessary worry.

For professional security consultations and services, contact Security Guard Group US at (313) 241-0901.