Holiday Travel Tips: Secure Your Home

If you’re going over the river and through the woods this holiday season, it’s important to make sure burglars don’t ruin your pumpkin pie. Before packing your bags, take a few simple steps to keep your home safe from unwanted visitors. What follows are tips from the pros:

• Lock everything. Check all doors and windows, including those on upper floors, the basement, and the garage.
• Secure your sliding doors. Yes, we already said to lock up—but too many homeowners neglect this vulnerable spot. Place a metal or wooden rod in the track to prevent doors from being forced open.
• Use smart lighting. Set indoor and outdoor lights on timers or use smart bulbs you can control remotely. A well-lit home discourages break-ins, and modern burglars aren’t fooled by a single hall light left on.
• Hold the mail. A stack of mail or packages signals that no one’s home. Have the post office hold deliveries until you return—and do the same with all those Amazons!
• Avoid oversharing. Resist posting your travel plans or vacation photos on social media until you’re back. Criminals really do pick up clues from Facebook accounts.
• Ask a neighbor for help. A trusted neighbor can park in your driveway, bring in deliveries, and keep an eye out for suspicious activity.
• Hide the valuables. Keep jewelry, cash, and electronics out of sight from any vantage point. Also, avoid storing spare keys under mats or flowerpots.
• Use a home security system. Before you leave, arm your alarm, check motion sensors, and make sure cameras are positioned and working properly.
• Unplug unnecessary devices. This reduces fire risk and saves energy while you’re gone.
• Don’t forget the yard. Trim shrubs near windows and doors so intruders have fewer hiding places.

And don’t forget: if you’re traveling out of state, let Jeanne D’Arc know! You can set up a travel alert in Online & Mobile Banking so your trip goes off without a hitch.