07/12

Hello summer – warmer days, longer nights, and excitement for upcoming vacations!

But, summer also comes with risks that homeowners should take notice of.

According to the Department of Justice, there are 10% more burglaries in the summer than in the winter. The rate of household property victimization and household larceny also reach high levels during the hottest months of the year.

While you’re out soaking up the sun on the beach, you don’t want to have to worry about your home. Before you pack up your bags and head out of town, check out these tips to protect your property while on vacation:

Lights

Think about installing motion detector lights on the corners of the garage.  

Light timers are also relatively affordable and easy to install. These light timers will randomly turn on and off in different rooms of your home throughout the day – which might make potential burglars unsure if the home is vacant.

Clean

You’ll want to tidy up your yard before you leave. Remove and store your valuables – like grills, bikes, or tools – from the yard. If you leave a car in the driveway while you’re gone, make sure to remove the garage opener from inside.

Hidden Keys

34% of burglars enter through the front door. Remove any hidden keys you may have, and store them inside your home.

Doors and Windows

Burglars look for opportunities of unlocked doors or windows – before you leave town, make sure all your points of entry have been locked.

Security System

While it might be expensive, security systems can greatly improve your protection. According to the National Council for Home Safety and Security, homes without security systems are 300% more likely to be broken into.

Many systems also offer remote access, so you can check on your home while you’re away. Your insurance provider might just offer a discount on your home insurance premium, which would help save in the long run.