When you're away

When you go on vacation there are a few things that you can do to help secure your house and make it less of a target for burglars:

Use timers on lights, radios, and/or TVs, to make them go on and off during the day and night to make your home appear occupied.
Leave blinds open in their usual position.
Lower the sound of your telephone ringer and answering machine so they can't be heard outside.
Stop mail and newspaper delivery, and have a neighbor or friend pick up anything left at the home (like those "throw-away" newspapers and circulars).
Leave your itinerary with a neighbor so you can be contacted in an emergency.
Ask the neighbors to watch your home and report any suspicious activities.
Disconnect your electric garage door opener and padlock the door, preferably on the inside.
Arrange to have your lawn mowed in summer and your walk and driveway shoveled in winter.
Notify police and dependable neighbors as to when you plan to be away. Join with your neighbors to keep a close watch on each other’s home and watch what’s happening in your area—working closely with them is a good way to prevent crime.
Don’t go away and leave your front porch light on for the entire time. It’s a clear signal to burglars that no one is home. Have motion sensor lights installed. Do the same for your back yard lights and the garage.
Lock your vehicles, even if they are being left in your garage (and remember to remove all your valuables from your vehicles).
Make sure your side garage doors are locked and secured. Turn off your automatic door opener.

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