As we make our way through July and August this summer, it’s no secret that everyone is ready for a little relaxation and some time away from our normal daily routines. After all, who wants to be working when it’s 80 degrees and sunny outside? But before you take off for a week at the beach, here are some quick and easy tips to keep your apartment safe and secure while you’re away:
• Electronics: First and foremost, don’t forget to take your phone charger with you: it’ll be a long vacation without your cell phone! Unplug all other electronic devices at home including chargers, lamps and extension cords, as all of these appliances can spark electrical fires.
• Lights: Although you don’t want to leave any lamps plugged in, it’s not a bad idea to have a small kitchen or desk light on to keep your apartment looking as though people are still home. Only about 28 percent of burglaries occur while residents are actually present, so keeping a light on here or there will significantly lower your odds of a break-in.
• Ask a friendly neighbor who you know and trust to keep an eye on your place. Make sure that you lock up all doors and windows, and double-check everything before you leave. And don’t forget to make sure that there are no spare keys under the welcome mat! If you have an alarm, set it, and it doesn’t hurt to have a neighbor looking out for you and your apartment.
• Keep quiet on social media. Of course, it’s nice to let your family and friends know all about your amazing vacation with pictures of the fabulous foods and drinks and tan that you’re enjoying. But wait until you get back from vacation: social media can tip off people that you’re not home and open the door (literally!) for a burglary.
• Hold the mail…and newspapers and packages. Letting your mail and newspapers overflow outside of your apartment is one of the biggest indications of people not being home. Simply ask your building manager or the post office to hold your mail for the duration of your vacation. When you get back, you can pick up the mail that’s been on hold and catch up on all of your reading.
There’s nothing worse than worrying about your home while you’re away, so be sure to follow all of these helpful tips to have not only a stress-free vacation but also a safe and intact home to come back to!
