
From time to time we have guest bloggers help us out with great tips that we think our readers will find valuable. This is one of those times. This one comes from Todd Bently who works for Lifeshield, a home security company from my home state of NH. Big shout out to NH! After reading these great tips I was happy to see that I made the grade. What about you? Any other ways that you safeguard your house when you are away. Please share your tips in our comments below.
It’s that time of year again! Summer is here and families all over the world will be heading out on holiday. Vacation is supposed to be a time of rest and relaxation but many people worry about their home the entire time they’re away. Most homeowners are constantly asking themselves: “Did I lock all the doors and windows before we left?” or “Did we remember to set the alarm?” Homeowners who want to protect their homes from burglaries should follow these six suggestions:
1. Contact your neighbors
Let your neighbors know when you’re going out of town. If you can, give an extended family member a key to your home so they can check in from time to time. You might even consider letting someone stay in your home while you’re gone so you know it’s always guarded.
2. Install motion sensor lights
If you haven’t already, it’s a good idea to set up motion sensor lights outside of your home. When anyone approaches, the lights will turn on. It’s a simple solution–burglars don’t want to be seen, so they will stay away from a home that’s well lit.
3. Leave a few lights on
It’s a good idea to leave a light or two on while you’re away. This will make it seem like you’re still at home. The most effective way to do this is to have your lights on a timer, allowing the lighting to turn on only at night, saving you money on your utility bill.
4. Invest in a safe
If you have valuables which you’ll worry about while you’re away, simply purchase a small, fireproof safe to place your valuables in. A safe will have a code or lock where only you will be able to access your important items.
5. Secure your windows
Common entry points for intruders are the windows in your home. It’s important to make sure that all windows are locked and can’t be opened from the outside. You can also add iron gates to your windows, which are designed for safety as well as decoration.
6. Install a security system
This option is the most expensive but the most effective. If your home is burglarized, the system will alert a security team and they’ll send help right away. When the alarm sounds, the intruder will either run away quickly or be caught in the act!
Todd, this guest blogger, works with Lifeshield, a company specializing in Security in Lebanon, NH, and Suncook Security.

