• Secure all entry points in your home by locking doors, windows, and gates.
• Repair any exterior damage, such as loose shingles, cracked windows or siding, and overgrown vegetation.
• Check that all smoke detectors are working properly and installed in the right locations.
• Invest in a security system to monitor activity while away to get alerts if something looks suspicious.
Are you looking forward to your upcoming outdoor adventure? Before you hit the road, ensuring your home is safe and secure is essential. Many outdoor adventurers neglect this step, leaving their homes vulnerable to damage or theft while they’re gone. To prepare your home for your absence, you must ensure that your home is as safe as possible.
Here are a few tips on ensuring peace of mind while away from home.
1) Secure the Entry Points
The first thing you should do is secure all entry points around your home. Because burglars often look for easy access points, it’s important to ensure everything is locked. Check the following areas:
a) Doors
Ensure all exterior doors are locked and install a deadbolt for added security. Don’t forget about the garage door, too! This is a common access point for burglars. Pet doors should also be secured.
b) Windows
Double-check that all your windows are closed and locked. If you have windows that don’t have locks, consider installing them before you go.
c) Gates
If you have a fence around your property, ensure the gate is locked. Most burglars won’t bother attempting to open a locked gate, so this will add an extra layer of security.
2) Repair Exterior Damage
Another important step to secure your home is to repair any exterior damage. Take a walk around the house and inspect everything to avoid potential issues. Small damage can quickly become a more serious issue if left unchecked, so it’s important to get them fixed. Look for things like:
a) Loose shingles
Check that all the shingles on your roof are secure. Loose or missing shingles can allow water to seep through and cause extensive damage. Call a residential roofer if you need help with this. They can also inspect your roof for any other potential problems.
b) Cracked windows or siding
Cracked siding can weaken the exterior of your home and leave it vulnerable to weather and intruders. Replace any damaged siding as soon as possible to avoid further damage. Similarly, cracked windows should also be replaced since they’re a common entry point for burglars.
c) Overgrown vegetation
Make sure to trim back any overgrown vegetation around your home. Bushes and trees can provide hiding spots for burglars, so keep them trimmed to reduce the chances of a break-in.
3) Check Your Smoke Detectors
Before leaving for your outdoor adventures, ensure all smoke detectors in your home are in working order. Test each detector and replace the batteries if needed. You should also check that one detector is installed on every level of your home—including the basement—and in each bedroom or sleeping area.
If you can, consider investing in a smart smoke detector that can be controlled from your phone. This will allow you to monitor your home while you’re away and get alerts if there’s a fire. Of course, you should ensure that someone else is checking your home regularly in case of an emergency. They can turn off the alarm if needed.
4) Invest in a Security System
Installing a security system can be an effective way to keep an eye on your home when you’re away on an adventure. You can set up motion sensors and cameras to monitor activity and get alerts sent to your phone if something looks suspicious. Keep in mind that many systems require a monthly fee for monitoring services and may require professional installation services if they include hard-wired components like alarms or cameras.
Consider talking to a home security professional about the best way to secure your home before you leave. Some systems may be too complex for a do-it-yourself installation, so it’s best to get advice from an expert before making any decisions. You can also research home security systems online to find one that fits your needs and budget.
When preparing for an outdoor adventure, it’s essential not to forget about securing the safety of your home before you go away! Ensure all entry points are secure and that you’ve repaired any exterior damage. Don’t forget to check your smoke detectors, and if possible, invest in a security system to monitor your home while you’re gone. With these steps taken before you leave, you can rest easy knowing that everything will be okay while you enjoy some time outdoors.
