In the midst of packing and gearing up for a fun getaway, it’s easy to overlook one of the most vital factors of all — protecting your home. Taking a few proactive measures before you lock the door will give you the peace of mind you need to enjoy your time away. Here are five tips to elevate your home security while you’re on vacation.

How to Protect Your Home When You Go on Vacation

1. Avoid Sharing Your Plans

Although it’s fun to share status updates and pictures while you’re on vacation, it’s best to be cautious about how much you reveal — going overboard could put your home security at risk. If you need to post during the trip, limit those posts only to close friends and family that you trust. Otherwise, avoid sharing anything until you return home.

2. Disconnect All Appliances

To prevent electrical hazards and lower your energy bills, unplug unessential appliances before you leave. This may include light fixtures, televisions, home entertainment systems, computers, coffeemakers, and other devices that you regularly use when you’re home.

3. Contact Your Alarm Company

Modern alarm systems do more than alert you to an intruder’s presence; they can also connect with a remote home security company who will automatically respond to the emergency with the correct personnel. This is especially useful if your property is breached when you’re nowhere near home. It’s always smart to alert your security system provider of the dates that you’ll be out of town so they’ll know how to reach you if there’s a problem.

4. Invest in Smart Lighting

Dark homes are inviting to intruders. Modern home automation options make it easy to install lighting that automatically turns on at select times of the day. If it looks as though someone is in the house, intruders will be less likely to attempt a break-in.

5. Check All Doors & Windows

If you spend a lot of time in the backyard or crack open the windows for fresh air regularly, you may occasionally neglect to lock entries to your home. Ensure all entry points — including windows — are locked before you leave. Also, draw curtains closed and pull down the blinds. If you use a timed lighting system, position the blinds so some of that light is visible from the street.

You’ll take comfort knowing your home is safe with the assistance of ClearView Security & Home Automation. Based in Oregon City, OR, and serving the Portland metro region, these home security professionals are committed to your safety and peace of mind. You can trust them to install an innovative alarm system that keeps you connected at all times. They can also customize other features for your property’s protection, including doorbell cameras, text alerts, and energy-saving home automation products. Visit the company online to find out more about upgrading your security system, or call (855) 709-4466 to get started today.