If you're like me, you've probably been counting down the days to when you finally get to travel for the holidays to celebrate with those you love most.
Whether that means heading to your family's place out of state or giving yourself the gift of a relaxing vacation, it's easy to get so distracted by your excitement that you forget to take the necessary precautions to keep your home and belongings safe while you're away.
There's more to it than making sure you have your security system in working order, if you have one. Tons of folks often overlook the common mistakes shown below. Scroll through to see what you might be doing to help burglars take advantage of your absence, before you head off on your winter trip.
Let us know if we missed any common blunders homeowners make while away and be sure to SHARE with your family and friends!
[H/T: Mental Floss, Safety.com]
Thumbnail sources: Flickr, YouTube
1. Keeping The Lights Off 24/7
The same goes for just leaving them on, both of which can be avoided with inexpensive and convenient technology that you can use to program the turning on/off of several appliances and electronics throughout your home while you're away.
2. Letting Snow Pile Up In The Driveway
Snow piling up in the driveway is a huge tell, so you might want to consider paying someone to keep it tidy for you, or perhaps ask a very kind friend or family member to help you out.
3. Having An Overflowing Mailbox
If someone can't come and check your mailbox for you every now and again while you're away, you can easily put a hold on all of your deliveries through the USPS website.
4. Leaving GPS In Your Car At The Airport
If they're planning to break into your home, they'll have no qualms about busting into your car, and the GPS will assist them in easily finding their way back to your abode. So, be sure to take out your GPS or hide it carefully before leaving your vehicle while parked in long-term parking.
5. Not Having Cars In The Driveway
You can also avoid the above example by having a friend drive you to the airport rather than taking your own car. and if they're really nice, maybe they will take your car for an occasional spin so it doesn't just sit there.
6. Taking Your Dog With You
Obviously you'll need to make sure someone can come in and care for the little cuties often throughout each day, but even small dogs can scare off potential predators from entering your home with their warning barks.
7. Forgetting Garbage Day
Again, you'll need a friend to help you with this one, but if you're gone for more than a week, you should definitely have someone pull your bins to the road for you, even if they're empty.
8. Not Having Your Valuables In A Safe
If the worst does happen and they make their way into your home, don't make it easy on them by leaving jewelry and other expensive items laying around for them to simply pluck up.
9. Leaving A Spare Key Out Front
Most career criminals are familiar with all of the ways folks try to stealthily keep a spare key near their door. Plus, you clearly won't be needing it while you're away!
10. Not Having A Security System
The lack of a security system can leave you much more vulnerable. You should also alert your security company before you leave so they know to be on extra careful lookout.
11. Broadcasting Your Trip On Social Media
I know this one is pretty difficult since we all love to post photos and updates, especially when we're celebrating the holidays, but you never know if someone on your friends list isn't trustworthy.
Did we miss any other common mistakes folks make while away from home? Let us know below and be sure to SHARE with your friends and family!
