Remember when you were a kid and right before vacation your parents did the standard vacation check-list to make sure everything was taken care of before you left for your long-overdue destination? Those rules still apply, but the things on the checklist have changed a bit since you were young. With the kickoff of vacation season this July 4th, we here at Emmer figured now would be a good time to point out some safety tips when protecting your home, even though you aren’t there.

Lock It Up: Obviously, you didn’t have plans to leave the door swinging for any ne’er-do-well to come waltzing inside. But doors aren’t the only way someone can get in the house. Be sure to lock all windows and it’s a good idea to unplug the garage door from the remote transmitter. If it’s locked and can’t get opened by remote, they can’t get inside. Also, if you’ve taken the time to make sure things are locked up, don’t give the public a key. Storing a key outside the house, even in a place you think is really hidden, will probably be found by a conscientious burglar. If you have to store a key outside of the house, try giving it to a neighbor to stash for you.

Hire a Friend: You’ve been told for years that if you leave the house for a while, you better suspend the newspaper and mail service. However, in doing so, you’re letting someone out in the world (that you don’t know) know that you’re house is being left unattended. Instead, why not ask a friend or neighbor (or hire them, if necessary) to watch over the house while you’re away. They can take in mail and newspapers, put out trash, mow the lawn, and do whatever else is necessary so your house isn’t left exposed.

Unplug and Disconnect: People can be scary, but so are fires and floods. When you leave the house, turn off anything that you wouldn’t be using, and that includes water to the washing machine and exterior faucets, the air conditioner or heater and being sure all small appliances are unplugged. It’s a small gesture that can save you a lot of hassle and heartache.

Hide Your Vacancy: If you don’t want unwanted guests when you aren’t home, don’t let them know you ever left. Set lights on timers so they go on and off as if you are there, and set a radio on a low volume talk show near a window to give the impression of voices talking. In fact, one of the biggest things you can do to protect your home takes place after you’ve already left, and that’s keeping your awesome vacation information off of social media. We know you want to share that awesome picture you took at the beach right this second, but in reality, Facebook can wait (Want proof? Check out this video). Save the bragging rights for after you get back and can safely keep an eye on your door.

Little things can really make a difference when you’re protecting your home. We hope everyone has a safe and fun vacation, no matter where you go! !

Do you have any tips for vacation safety? Let us know in the comments below!