Traveling during the holidays to see family and make the most of your vacation time is cause for celebration and excitement. While you’re away from home, you shouldn’t have to worry about security and whether your property is a target for theft. That’s why locksmiths often recommend new safety measures before holiday travel, from deadbolt installation to maintaining open communication with your neighbors. As you pack your bags, follow the do’s and don’ts listed below so you can truly enjoy your time away. 

Do:

Invest in a security system or deadbolt installation.

Leading up to your vacation, take stock of your current home security defenses. If you only have a doorknob lock, deadbolt installation on all exterior doors is highly recommended to increase safety and deter burglars. Video surveillance, motion lights, and alarm systems can also help protect your assets while you’re gone. 

Tell neighbors you trust about your travel plans.

Tell a few trustworthy neighbors about your travel plans in private. This way, they’ll know to stay on high alert should they see strangers at your house. If you have a neighbor that’s staying in town, ask if they’ll pick up your mail or any packages scheduled to be delivered so an overstuffed mailbox doesn’t demonstrate the fact your home is unoccupied due to vacation plans. 

Don’t:

Post your travel plans on social media. 

While it’s natural to want to share your holiday travel experience online, refrain from posting exact dates and details in real time. If your account is public, this provides strangers with a timeline of when your home will be unattended. Having this information announced on social media can lead to break-ins and stolen mail. 

Leave keys hidden on your property. 

When you or a member of your family is known to get locked out often, it’s common to hide keys on your property, under a welcome mat or disguised by a potted plant. Unfortunately, savvy burglars are likely to check for hidden keys. Instead, leave a key with a neighbor you trust or consider making a transition to keyless entry and setting a new code before you depart. This way, you can rest easy knowing your home is a difficult target. 

A.B. Bonded Locksmiths is a family-owned and -operated company that has been serving residents throughout Hamilton County, OH, since 1933. Currently run by trusted community member Russ McGurrin, you can depend on this locksmith to provide efficient service that always has the security of your home or business at top of mind. To schedule deadbolt installation, switch to keyless entry, or lock repair before you leave for the holidays, call today at (513) 531-5552. For more information on their services and why they have a reputation for quality work and effective security measures, visit their website.