Holiday Tips: Protecting Your Home While You’re Away

Simple and Effective Home Security for the Holidays

The holiday season is a time for gathering with loved ones, but if you're planning to travel, it’s also a time to consider protecting your home while you’re gone. Burglars enjoy taking advantage of empty homes during this busy season, which makes home security for the holidays a priority. Continue reading for practical ways to protect your home in Kansas City, MO, while you're away.

SEE ALSO: How To Protect Your Home And Family With Smart Technology

Make Your Home Look Lived-In

A house that looks empty is an open invitation for burglars. Smart home technology makes it easier than ever to avoid a deserted-looking home. Set timers for lights, TVs, and motorized shades to mimic your everyday activities and throw onlookers off as to your location. Program devices to turn on and off randomly using your smartphone to keep them guessing.

Don't forget the exterior! Arrange for snow to be shoveled, and ask a trusted neighbor to collect your mail and packages. If that’s not possible, you can pause mail delivery through the U.S. Postal Service.

Secure Doors and Windows

Before leaving on your trip, double-check all entry points to your home. Deadbolts, strike plates, and window locks are must-haves for basic security. For an added layer of protection, consider installing a smart lock system that lets you monitor and control door locks remotely, so you never have to jolt awake in the night wondering if you locked up.

Don’t forget these vulnerabilities! Sliding doors can be particularly susceptible to break-in, so reinforce them with a rod or place a bar in the track. Also, don't overlook your garage—consider adding smart locks here as well. These are also great places to install surveillance cameras to ensure you can keep an eye on them while away.

Invest in a Home Security System

A professionally installed security system is a popular way to protect a property when away. These systems alert you—and authorities—of any unusual activity. A comprehensive system should include motion sensors, door/window contacts, and cameras with remote access.

Don’t forget to test before you leave! If you have a security system, it’s a good idea to test it before going to ensure everything works properly.

The holidays should be a time of joy, not worry. A little security for the holidays is never a bad idea, so you can enjoy peace of mind knowing your Kansas City, MO, home is safe while you're celebrating elsewhere. Contact us at Applause Custom Sight & Sound for personalized home security solutions. For a free consultation, please contact us at (913) 498-1183, use the live chat box below, or fill out our contact form. Happy holidays!