When you return home from a great vacation, the last thing you want to deal with is being a victim of a break-in.

You can thwart off most attacks on your house. Here are seven ways to help protect your home while you’re exploring the world this summer.

1. Set Timers on Your Lights – After the sun goes down and there are no lights on in your house, that’s a clear sign that no one is home. Set timers on a few lights by windows throughout your home; also, LED lights can be left on as the average cost is very minimal.

2. Pause Your Newspaper Service – Allowing pile-up of newspapers and mail is a sure sign no one is home. The postal service can hold your mail at your local post office until your return and then deliver it to you. Or, have a neighbor collect the daily paper and mail for you.

3. Let Your Trusted Neighbors Know – Tell a neighbor who you trust that you will be away. That way they can keep their eyes and ears alert for any strange activity. Also, they can remove any flyers that may get left at your door or driveway.

4. Put Up Flood Lights – Motion-sensor flood lights can keep away thieves. Neighbors will notice the lights being activated. Flood lights are best mounted over garages and entry points. Also, some have microphones that you can speak through to let the stranger know you’re calling the authorities if needed.

5. Bring Your Spare Key Indoors – The hidden spare key under a statue needs to be brought in until you return. If you need to leave a key for a house sitter, make sure it’s well hidden or in a disguised key holder. Make sure you haven’t given out any extra keys to friends or vendors that you don’t see anymore, or it might be time to change your locks before you leave on vacation.

6. Install an Electronic Keyless Deadbolt – Reinforcing the locks is a good idea. With smart locks and other technology, you have a ton of options. Consider installing a double-sided electronic keyless deadbolt on your front and back doors. These locks cannot be picked or bumped and will fit on locks of all sizes.

7. Use a Remote Surveillance System – You don’t have to get an elaborate security system to protect your home. Accessories like a hidden security camera and door alarms are a fraction of the cost and do the job. A smart app camera or a motion activated camera will set off an audible alarm and notify you via an app of movement on your property.

With a little home security planning, it is possible to travel with peace of mind!

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