Summer may be coming to an end, but families everywhere are still in vacation mode. Do you have an exciting trip coming up? If so, you have a lot to consider. First you have to think about your wardrobe and what you will wear on your trip. What will the weather be like? Don’t forget a jacket in case it rains. Then comes the little things, like your toiletries, phone charger, that book you’ve been meaning to read, and anything else you can think of. Then you have to fit all of those items in one suitcase. Now you are finally ready to go, right? Wrong!
Many homeowners completely forget one important step: Keeping your Home Safe.
Of the 2,000,000 home burglaries reported each year in the United States, did you know that the highest percentage of burglaries occur during the summer months: June, July, and August? Scary, isn’t it? While on vacation, who is left to watch our home and protect our valuables?
Summertime, Vacation and Safety Awareness
- Lock Up: Okay, so No. 1 may be a bit obvious, but it cannot be overstated. Lock up. This doesn’t just mean your doors, but also your windows. Before you leave, double check that ever door and window is securely locked. Locking your home makes it less attractive to opportunistic burglars who want to get in and get out as quickly as possible.
- Avoid Social Media: While it is second nature nowadays to post about our life online, it is not always the best idea when away on vacation. You never know who is looking at your Facebook page.
- House Sitter: One of the best ways to protect your home is to have a friend or family member housesit while you are away. This is particularly convenient if you have pets.
- Stop the Mail: A mailbox full of letters or a driveway full of old newspapers is a dead giveaway that you are away. So it is always a good idea to have a neighbor pick up your mail or, better yet, contact the post office and suspend your mail delivery until you get back. They can hold mail from three to 30 days.
- Lighting: Another great way to protect your home is via lighting. “Good lighting deters crime and produces a more secure atmosphere,” according to a U.S. Department of Justice (DOJ) report. When it comes to lighting, you have multiple options. Outdoor lighting is a great way to scare off would-be burglars, while interior lighting (especially when coupled with a timer) is a great way to make your home appear occupied even when you are away.
- Electronics: While turning off and unplugging electronics may not deter burglars, this simple task can help you save money and minimize the risk of accidental electrical fire while you are gone.
TriStar hopes all our fans and followers will be safe!
If you have any questions, please contact TriStar Electric by calling 410-799-5791 or 301-384-8880 or fill out the contact form on our website. Our electricians can provide you with a competitive quote that covers every stage of the process – from installation to final testing.
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