Security Steps for Your Next Vacation

While many families excitedly look forward to their getaways, unfortunately, vacation time is when burglars get to work. There’s nothing worse than coming back from a relaxing vacation to a stressful situation at home, so it is best to be prepared before you travel.

Security tech

Investing in a quality, easy-to-use security system grants peace of mind for many travelers. Already have one? This may sound simple, but be sure to remember to set your home security systems to the appropriate settings before leaving for travel. However, if you forget to arm your system before you leave, you may still be able set it. Some home security systems let you arm or disarm your system by remotely accessing it via smartphone, tablet or computer. You can also set up alerts to remind you if your system hasn’t been armed.

You could also invest in a smart doorbell that automatically sends a text or email to you each time the bell is triggered. Take a look at your security cameras to make sure everything is OK, or have a trusted neighbor stop by. Smart doorbells can also trigger entryway lighting to give the illusion that someone is home.

If your home looks unlived in, that is often a green light for a passing burglar.

Remote locks are also useful if you are planning on being away but still need to allow certain visitors into your home while you’re gone. You’ll be able to lock and unlock your doors remotely and be alerted every time the door is unlocked. This means if you happen to forget your house keys, you’ll be able to let yourself in when you return from vacation. If you’re leaving your teens or young adult children behind, you can get alerts for when they leave or come home. You can even set up an emergency automation that unlocks your doors if a fire is detected.

If you’re still likely to worry with a home security system, smart doorbell and remote lock, then consider video surveillance. You’ll be able to see live video of your home from your smartphone, tablet or computer and sync your cameras to motion detectors so you can receive video clips of movement as soon as the sensors are triggered.

Trick the burglars

If your home looks unlived in, that is often a green light for a passing burglar. Here are a few ways to create the illusion that someone is staying at your home:

• Ask a neighbor, friend or family member to help collect mail and packages and move cars.
• Arrange to have your lawn mowed, if you are gone more than a week.
• Use a smart lighting system that lets you program lights to come on at specific times each day.

Visit usaa.com/adt for more tips on protecting your home while you’re away.