It’s summertime and as many of us are planning vacations, it’s important to address the need to protect your home while you are away.
Each year, when we ask our police officers for tips, the answer is pretty much the same: use some common sense, and take precautions.
When you head out, always leave indoor and outdoor lights on a timer. And be sure to leave a car in the driveway.
Another simple safety measure is letting your neighbors know you’ll be away. They can check the house, making sure it’s secure and no strangers are about. Having neighbors walk around the house a few times will make it appear that the house isn’t empty.
An alarm system is a wonderful safety enhancement, too.
When you are ready to leave for vacation, call the police and let them know when you’ll be gone, where you can be reached in an emergency, who, if anyone, will be at your house and which cars will be parked in the driveway. The police will check your house more often.
In the midst of all of the excitement, planning and last-minute getaway work, don’t forget to protect your home before you leave.
Wendy Karpel Kreitzman
