Vacations are a time for rest, relaxation, and escape from the hustle and bustle of daily life. But when you’re hundreds or thousands of kilometers away enjoying the beauty of Banff or the charm of Charlottetown, the last thing you want is to worry about the security of your home back in Montreal, Toronto, Vancouver, or wherever you hang your hat. Let’s be real. Break-ins happen all the time and the only way to prevent them is maximising your home’s security.
Here are 9 tips to safeguard your home before you head out for a vacation:
1. Invest in a Home Security System
Every home must have a home security system for this very reason. If you don’t have one yet, you should highly consider getting one installed professionally. They’ve evolved beyond simple alarms and now include options like motion detectors, door and window sensors, and even smart cameras that you can monitor remotely from your smartphone. Consider a system that is monitored 24/7 by a professional security company, which can contact local authorities if an incident occurs.
2. Make Use of Timers for Lights
Using timers to turn on and off your smart lights can create the illusion that someone is home. You can also use them with radios or TVs to add to the lived-in façade. Don’t forget to adjust them to match the sunrise and sunset times in your city!
3. Hold Your Mail
A stuffed mailbox or a pile of newspapers at your doorstep is a clear sign that you’re away. Canada Post offers a convenient Mail Hold Service that keeps your mail safe at your local Post Office until you return. You can also ask a trusted neighbor to collect your mail, packages, and any flyers left at your door.
4. Keep Your Travel Plans Off Social Media
It may be tempting to share your vacation countdown or check-in at the airport on social media, but it’s best to keep those details private. You never know who’s watching and could take advantage of your absence. Save your photos and updates for when you return home.
5. Arrange for Lawn or Snow Maintenance
Depending on the season, an overgrown lawn or unremoved snow can indicate that you’re on vacation. Arrange for a service or a friendly neighbor to mow your lawn or clear the snow from your driveway and sidewalks. An overgrown lawn is also subject to potential fines from your municipality, which can cost you upwards of $400.
6. Secure Your Home
Before you head out, check all windows and doors to ensure they’re locked. You can also install additional locks and alarms. If you have any windows without curtains or blind, you can find some for temporary use at your local second-hand store. Don’t forget about the garage, garden sheds, or basement windows. Consider upgrading to deadbolt locks, which are more difficult for burglars to defeat.
7. Let Your Neighbours Know
Good neighbors can be your first line of defense against home burglary. If you’re comfortable doing so, let them know your plans so they can keep an eye out for any suspicious activity. They could also help by putting out your trash cans or parking in your driveway occasionally.
8. Protect Your Valuables
Like any other family, your family also has valuables including jewelry, property documents, or priceless possessions. Invest in a good quality home safe to limit your losses in case of a break-in.
9. Disconnect Your Electronics
Save energy and eliminate potential fire hazards by unplugging your electronics including TVs, computers, and small kitchen appliances. It also protects your devices from power surges.
If you’re looking to install a smart home security system in Montreal, Cablatel would be happy to help. Get in touch with us for an upfront quote.
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