Keep your home safe while squeezing in your last minute vacations..

                                                    


It's almost back to school time here in Houston and many of you are squeezing in your last minute vacations. Be smart, nothing could be worse to returning to a home that's been broken into!

Over the last few days, I've seen a ton of posts from my "friends" about their upcoming vacations. Things like: "2 days to Florida...can't wait", "Entire family headed to the airport---1 week of fun in the sun".

Remember, your posts are not as private as you think and telling the whole world that your home will be empty is an invitation for trouble. In the spirit of security, we wanted to share a few tips to make sure your home is safe and secure.


1. Make Sure All Doors and Windows Are Locked. - Yes, I realize this is pretty obvious, but you'd be surprised how many people rush out the door without checking every single entrance to their home. Some locks stick, especially in older homes, so be sure to check everything before leaving.

2. Cancel Your Newspaper. - Nothing screams vacant home better than newspapers piling up in your driveway.

3. Keep Lights On With A Timer. - My grandparents always used timers and I thought they were silly, but actually make a lot of sense if your home is empty.

4. Tell Your Neighbors. -Whether living in a house or apartment let your neighbors ( provided that you like and trust them of course ) know of your plans so they can be on the lookout for any suspicious activity.

5. Have A Friend Check On Your Home- Having someone stop by to make sure things are ok is a smart idea. I actually have a friend who has someone pull into and out of his garage when there is a snowfall (obviously not here in Houston), so that anyone driving by will see the new tracks, giving the appearance that someone is home. A little paranoid perhaps, but not a bad idea.

Oh, and a another suggestion, please don't post while you are actually on vacation, because this is just as bad. Share the pictures of you on the beach after you get home.

Enjoy your vacation, just be smart.
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