The Best Ways to Protect Your Home While You’re Away

Are you about to leave your home unattended? Whether it is for a short weekend break or a few weeks on a work assignment, this always comes with a bit of worry. Break-ins. Unexpected maintenance issues. Extreme weather conditions. Homeowners face a range of risks while they’re away.

The good news: by combining today’s technology with a few practical steps, you can significantly reduce those risks and enjoy a more relaxing time during your travels.

Automate Lights and Shades

As you know, a dark home for days on end is a clear signal to potential robbers that no one’s around. Rather than always keeping a light on, you can use smart plugs or lighting systems to create a schedule that mimics your normal routines.

Want to take it a step further? You could also install automated window shades to open and close at different times of the day. Small touches, yes, but they go a long way in creating the illusion someone is home.

Use Smart Surveillance and Doorbell Cameras

Modern security cameras can be accessed via a smartphone. This makes it easy to check in on your property in real time. Motion-activated doorbell cameras are especially useful. Not only can you see who’s at your front door, but you can even speak to them remotely.

It may not seem like much. However, this voice function can deter package theft and prevent unwanted visitors from sticking around. The visibility of cameras is also a well-known deterrent on its own.

Don’t Forget the Garage

The garage tends to be one of the most overlooked entry points. It’s also one of the most vulnerable.

This is where a smart garage door opener can be a game-changer. LiftMaster garage door openers, for example, integrate with the myQ app. In doing this, you can monitor and control your garage door remotely. You’ll get alerts if the door is opened and can even grant temporary access to friends and neighbors, all from your phone.

Secure Outdoor Access Points

Gates. Fences. Backyard entryways. It’s common for all of these to be left unsecured. Do you have the luxury of a driveway gate? In this case, it’s recommended to install an automatic gate opener for both convenience and protection.

Get a gate operator with obstruction detection and remote-control features, and this guarantees only authorized people can enter while you’re away. Additionally, you can also pair it with a smart access control system. This allows you to monitor gate activity in real time for even more data to use.

Ask Family or a Neighbor for Help

You might be focused on the latest advancements. However, even with all the tech in the world, nothing beats gaining assistance from a family member or trusted neighbor. By asking someone for help, they can complete various tasks that’ll only take a few minutes. These tasks can include checking your mail, watering plants, and even walking around the house occasionally.

Their presence, even if brief, helps to maintain normal activity around your property. It’s also another way to discourage unwanted visitors.

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Becky

Meet the award-nominated UK lifestyle blogger behind Spirited Puddle Jumper – a mum of three living in South East London! Becky shares the real ups and downs of family life, parenting tips, and lifestyle inspiration, proving that being a mum doesn’t mean you stop being fun or having other interests! Follow along for honest insights into UK family life and opinions on a whole range of topics, from travel and food, to beauty reviews, home and DIY, business and health and wellness.