The winter is a busy time of year, between trekking out to the local outdoor rink, heading out to the ski hill, or enjoying a well-earned tropical getaway down south. When you’re going as much as you are, it’s important to ensure that your home and all of your valuables are properly safeguarded. Let’s explore some tactics to protect your home when you’re out and about this winter:
Leave a Light or Two On
One simple, but effective way of deterring any burglars from targeting your home is by leaving a light or two on around a nearby window. It’s an easy way to make it look like there is someone home when in fact, there isn’t. You can set lamps and lights on timers so your home always seems occupied.
Ensure Curtains are Closed
It’s easy to forget about closing the curtains before heading out the door – especially if you’re leaving mid-day and won’t be back until late. So always take a few moments to close your blinds or curtains so that no one can easily determine who or what is inside. If you leave your curtains open, it’s easy to peek in and tell that no one is home. It’s also all too easy to scout the home for valuables.
Install a Security System
If you really want to provide the ultimate protection for your home, there’s really no better way than by having a home security system installed. With an alarm system in place, you can bet no burglar will want to step near your front door. In fact, homes with alarm systems are 6x-15x less likely to be burglarized, and 60% of burglars would move onto another target if they spotted an active alarm system. Beyond the issue of home invasion, a camera system will allow you to check in on your home at any time from anywhere in the world from the convenience of your laptop, tablet, or smartphone. Home security systems also include optional fire monitoring and flood monitoring to dispatch emergency services if needed before severe damage is caused.
Make Sure Your Mail is Collected
If you are going to be away from home for a few days, or even just a night, ask a neighbour or friend to collect your mail. There’s no greater way of signalling that no one’s home than by having mail pile outside your front door! If you’re a snowbird who winters in Florida or you have an extended vacation planned, consider putting a stop on your mail delivery until your return.
Get a House Sitter
Even if you don’t have plants to water or a pet to feed, it’s still okay to have someone house sit! This has become more common among homeowners, but it can also be a hassle to find someone trustworthy and available. Friends and relatives are often your best bet.
Before you dive head first into your calendar of events this winter, take the time to consider how best to protect and safeguard your home. It’s the most popular time of year for break-ins to occur, so when in doubt, use some of these tactics, and consider having a security system installed to give you the ultimate peace of mind.