Home Safety Tips While You’re on Vacation
Heading out on vacation should be exciting — not stressful. Whether you’re gone for a weekend or a few weeks, taking a little time to prepare your home before you leave can give you real peace of mind while you’re away.
Here is practical, easy-to-implement home safety tips to help protect your property while you’re enjoying your time off.
- Make Your Home Look Lived In
An empty house is often an easy target. Creating the appearance that someone is still home can go a long way.
Simple ideas:
- Put interior and exterior lights on timers
- Leave a car in the driveway if possible
- Ask a neighbor to park there occasionally
- Avoid leaving blinds or curtains fully open everywhere
Small details make a big difference.
- Pause or Redirect Deliveries
Nothing says “no one’s home” like overflowing mail or packages on the doorstep.
Before you leave:
- Put mail and newspaper delivery on hold
- Ask a trusted neighbor to collect packages
- Use delivery lockers or schedule deliveries after you return
- Lock Everything — Then Double Check
It sounds obvious, but it’s easy to miss things when you’re rushing to leave.
Before heading out:
- Lock all doors and windows
- Secure basement and garage access points
- Lock sheds and backyard storage
- Close and lock patio doors
A quick walk-around before you leave is worth the extra few minutes.
- Be Careful What You Share on Social Media
Vacation photos are fun — but timing matters.
Safety tip:
Wait until you’re home to post travel photos publicly. Posting in real time can unintentionally advertise that your house is empty.
If you do post:
- Avoid tagging your exact location
- Keep privacy settings tight
- Share select content with close friends only
- Adjust Your Smart Home & Security Settings
If you have smart devices or a security system, use them to your advantage.
Before leaving:
- Arm your alarm system
- Enable motion detection alerts
- Make sure cameras are working properly
- Test notifications on your phone
Even basic systems can be effective when set up correctly.
- Turn Off or Adjust Utilities
Preventing damage is just as important as preventing break-ins.
Consider:
- Turning off the main water supply (especially in winter)
- Unplugging unnecessary electronics
- Adjusting the thermostat to save energy
- Checking that smoke and CO detectors are functioning
These steps can help avoid costly surprises when you return.
- Let Someone You Trust Know You’re Away
Having a local contact is one of the best safety measures you can take.
Ask a trusted neighbor, friend, or family member to:
- Check on the house periodically
- Bring in mail or flyers
- Watch for anything unusual
- Have a spare key in case of emergency
- Secure Valuables Out of Sight
Even if someone were to gain access, don’t make it easy.
- Store valuables in a safe or hidden location
- Avoid leaving expensive items visible through windows
- Lock important documents away
Final Thoughts
A little preparation before your vacation can protect your home, prevent damage, and help you truly relax while you’re away. These simple safety steps don’t take long — but they can save you a lot of stress later.
Safe travels, and enjoy your time away knowing your home is ready for your return 🏡✈️
Heather Markus
eXp Realty
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