You should be able to leave all your worries behind when you go on vacation. 

We've put together a set of tips to help you ensure your home is secure while you're away so you can truly relax.

Are you planning to escape the cold and snow at all this winter? If so, will anyone be watching your home? Neighbours, family and friends are great options. Unfortunately, you can bet that thieves have their eye on your empty property as well. 

One of the best ways to protect your home while you’re away is with a security system. Even a basic motion sensor, door/window contacts, and/or audible alarm can dissuade a thief. Security stickers or lawn signs should be placed in strategic and visible spots. For extra peace of mind, police strongly recommend a monitored system because neighbours tend to feel helpless in case of alarms. 

Even with the best residential security system, there are many other quick and easy ways to deter a burglar. It pays to be proactive!

• Neighbourhood Watch. Give your key and a temporary alarm code to a friend or neighbour to check on your house. Letting mail pile up, or leaving snow un-shovelled is an obvious sign that no one is home. Kids in the neighbourhood would probably be thrilled if you hired them for a few bucks. Just make sure your home monitoring service knows who has access in order to avoid false alarms.
• Light Up. Make the house look lived-in by setting lights on (random) timers in the evening. Consider leaving porch lights on to discourage burglars.
• Unplug. You likely turn off your TV, computer, coffee maker, and other appliances when going on vacation. Go a step further, and unplug them. Not only will this save you money, it will also prevent fires caused by power surges.
• Lock Up. Doors and windows are obvious. Take a moment to consider other points of access. Sealing the cat door, and putting away the spare key are just a few extra precautions that can make a big difference.
• Tell the Police. If you live in a smaller community, officers patrolling your neighbourhood may pay extra attention if they know you’re away.
• Open the Blinds. Covering all your windows is a sure sign no one is home. Just remember to hide your valuables.

Food for Thought:

With today’s security technology, accessible video feeds allow you to look around your house from anywhere in the world. All you need is a smartphone or a tablet. Imagine arming your system from an airport lounge or peeking at your cat and pet-sitter from a faraway beach. Homesick children can have full video reassurance that Teddy is still safe. In-home cameras can digitize and encrypt a live video stream, putting your home in the palm of your hand. 

Are you shopping around for a security system?

Try our DIY Home Security Calculator to put together a system that works for you, from the comfort of your home.

Note: This blog discusses general safety and security topics. It is not intended to provide comprehensive advice or guidance. In all matters of personal safety and security, we encourage readers to research topics in depth and consult a security professional about specific concerns.