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Now that we're in the thick of the season, many are drawing up their plans for a beach getaway or are preparing to embark on domestic and international excursions that have been months or years in the making. Before traveling we've got some tips to keep your home safe.
Never use social media to tell your friends that you're on vacation
I know this may be difficult, but letting everyone know you're on vacation, posting photos while still on vacation and checking into locations on Foursquare and Yelp is a burglary waiting to happen. Unless you've got your privacy settings locked up tight and trust your Facebook friends (start thinking about all those "friends" you hardly talk to in real life), avoid checking in at that bar and posting photos of cliff diving until after you're home.
Never go it alone
Even if it's just two eyeballs once a day, ask your neighbor to keep an eye on your home while you're away. This doesn't mean that they have to be an ever-vigilant sentry paroling your home. All it means is that they can keep wise to anything suspicious that they notice during your vacation. Had they not known you were away, your home would just be sitting there all by its lonesome without anyone knowing of your absence.
Never have your mail visibly pile up
A pile of parcel can be an obvious sign to home intruders that you're not home. Like the last bit of advice, enlist a neighbor (perhaps the neighbor's kid) to pick up your mail if you
don't have a slot in your door to conceal your mail from the public
get the newspaper delivered to your home
are expecting a package while on vacation
Never simply turn off the AC
Try setting it to 82 degrees Fahrenheit to prevent mildew and mold.
Never leave the dishwasher or washing machine door closed
Once again, water is not your best friend in enclosed spaces. To prevent mold and mildew make sure these appliances have an opportunity to breath.