- If know someone who you really trust, we mean REALLY trust… Ask them to house sit for you, while you are away. Make sure they are reliable and capable of doing so. Knowing your home is cared for and attended to, while traveling, provides peace of mind and excellent home security.
- Make sure that your home is locked and all appliances are shut down before leaving for any length of time.
- Time your lights in alternate rooms at various settings. Buy an extra timer and avoid just using one light at the same time, day in and day out. Set the lights in different rooms, at overlapping times.
- Lock your garage and sheds.
- If you have TRUSTED neighbors, let them know you are going and when you expect to return.
- Ask them to keep an eye on your home and tend to your mail and newspaper.
- Leave your family or trusted neighbor the capability to contact you in case of an emergency.
- Avoid leaving your home looking unattended.
- Have arrangements made for trash pick up and lawn care.
- If you need to, have mail and newspaper delivery suspended for the duration of your trip. There is probably no better sign that a home is vacant than having mail and news papers piling up on the porch.
- If you leave a car outside, arrange to have it moved every so often, by neighbors or family. It will give the impression that you are still coming and going.
- Contact your local Police Department and ask them to give your home special attention when possible.
- While traveling, use traveler’s checks and keep extra checks secured.
- Carry a photocopy of all your identification and credit cards in case you lose something. At least you will be able to identify yourself if needed. You will also have a copy of all your important documents and numbers.
- Make sure your accommodations are safe and clean. Use all the security features provided to you.
- Use ALL door locks in your room.
- Leave a TV on when you are out of your hotel room. Use the DO NOT DISTURB SIGN.
- Do not use the “Please Clean” sign. It indicates that you are out of the room.
- All reasonable lodging facilities will have a safe that you can keep extra checks, money or valuables in. Use them if needed.
- Report any suspicious persons or activities to the desk personnel and ask them when something will be done about it. Check back to make sure it has.
