Protect Your Home While on Vacation

The holidays are a busy time for traveling, and this is something burglars are well aware of. Unbeknownst to you, a burglar might be targeting your home and keeping track of when you are home or away, so it's best to play it safe and follow a few tips we've gathered for keeping your home safe while you are vacationing this holiday season. The Kansas City movers are wishing you a safe and happy holiday season!

Don't publicize vacations ahead of time. With social media, this is hard for many people. However you never know who can see your updates and what kind of privacy settings friends of friends have on your posts. It's best to share your vacation after you have returned. Don't announce your absence on answering machines or on any online networking websites such as Facebook, twitter, or other networks.

Stop deliveries of mail and newspapers or ask a friend to pick them up while you are gone. Put automatic timers on several lights and a radio. Set them so they will turn on and off at random times in different rooms especially the bathroom. Arrange to have the lawn mowed.

Leave a car parked in the driveway rather than in the garage. Or, have a neighbor park in your driveway or in front of your house.

Close and lock garage doors and windows. Ask a neighbor to occasionally park in your driveway. If you leave your car at home, park it as you normally would. Vehicles parked outside should be moved occasionally to appear that they are being used. Have good locks on all doors and windows. Ensure they are in good working condition and use them. Secure storage sheds, attic and entrances and gates.

Notify the police of your plans. They will keep an eye on your house when they are in the neighborhood. Engrave your valuables or have serial numbers on file in a safe, secure location. This simple step will allow your stolen property to be identified and returned to you if recovered by police.

By following these guidelines you are likely to deter burglars and make it appear as though someone is home, even while you are miles away. But remember, these tips aren't just for the holidays. Take caution any time you go out of town, whether it is for a night or for several weeks! Happy Holidays from your friends at All My Sons!