If you’re going away for the holidays this year–whether to see family or take some time for yourself–it’s always wise to tighten your security measures before you leave the house unattended. Taking certain steps to discourage theft and upgrading your home security system can help protect it from break-ins and vandalism while you’re away. Below is more information on five ways to improve your home security through technology and preventive measures. 

Proper Home Security Steps to Take Before Going Away on a Trip

1. Invest in Privacy Blinds

Purchase and install thick privacy blinds before you leave to prevent strangers from looking inside while you’re gone. A home that thieves know is vacant is easy pickings, so blocking your interior from view will keep them from seeing that it’s unoccupied. It also keeps them from seeing any valuables you may have inside, and not being able to see what they’re walking into may help discourage thieves, too.

2. Test All Door & Window Locks

Before leaving, make sure to check and double-check all of the locks on your windows and doors. An unlocked window or door may be the difference between a thief entering your home and deciding to move on. Make sure that they work and aren’t worn down or easily broken, and check all of them in the minutes before you leave to ensure that they’re all properly secured.

3. Don’t Let Mail Pile Up

Mail collecting in the mailbox and newspapers in the driveway are clear signs to scouting intruders that a home has been empty for several days, making it a target for them. Ask a neighbor, friend, or family member to drop by daily or every other day to collect your mail and newspapers. If no one’s available, then have the post office and newspaper staff put your deliveries on hold so you can pick all of your mail and papers up when you get back.

4. Implement a Video Monitoring System

If you’re able, you should upgrade your home’s security technology to one that includes video streaming, recording, and monitoring services, such as a doorbell system. Advanced systems will come with the option to customize when, how, and why you receive alerts of your home’s activity, such as turning them on or off for certain times and days. This is especially useful if you have someone coming by to water your plants, check on your cats, or otherwise have cause to be in your home at certain times.

5. Automate the Lights in Your Home

Another technological solution you can take advantage of is smart lighting systems that are automated. Advanced systems will come with customizable schedules, so you can set timeframes for when you want lights on or off. This means you can set the lights in your home to be on whenever it gets dark and turn back off around the time you usually go to bed while you’re gone. This, combined with privacy blinds and preventing mail accumulation, will enhance the illusion that someone is home.

If you want to upgrade your home’s security system before leaving for the holidays, put your trust in the professionals at ClearView Security & Home Automation in Oregon City, OR. They offer leading-edge home security measures, such as video monitoring services and customizable security systems, as well as home automation solutions. When it comes to your home, no one offers more advanced, customizable security systems and automation solutions at better prices. Options for security include wireless access to 24/7 video monitoring and recording, alerts you can customize by day and time, and doorbells outfitted with cameras that allow you to see and speak to the person who rang it. Their automation efficiency solutions include smart thermostat systems and lighting technology. View their home solutions online, then call (855) 709-4466 to speak with an expert.