Holidays are a time for relaxation and adventure, but leaving your home unattended can be a source of stress. Burglars often target homes when they know the owners are away, and the garage is one of the most vulnerable entry points. As a trusted garage door company, we’re here to share some essential security tips that will help you protect your home while you’re enjoying your well-deserved holiday.
Secure Your Garage Door
Your garage door is not just an entrance for your car but can also be a potential entry point for intruders. Here’s how to make sure it’s secured:
Invest in a Smart Garage Door Opener: Smart openers can be controlled via an app on your phone, allowing you to check if the door is closed and lock it remotely. Many models also offer real-time alerts if the door is opened or tampered with.
Disable the Garage Door Opener: If you’re going to be away for an extended period, consider unplugging the garage door opener or using a holiday lock switch to disable it. This prevents anyone from using a remote control to open it.
Use a Deadbolt Lock: Adding a deadbolt to the door between your garage and home adds an extra layer of security. This ensures that even if someone gains access to your garage, they won’t easily get inside your house.
Create the Illusion of Being at Home
A home that appears occupied is less likely to be targeted by burglars. Here are some tips to create the illusion of activity:
Automate Your Lights: Use timers or smart plugs to turn lights on and off at random intervals. This makes it look like someone is home, deterring potential intruders.
Suspend Deliveries: A pile of newspapers or packages is a clear sign that no one’s home. Be sure to suspend mail and package deliveries or ask a trusted neighbour to collect them for you.
Keep the Garden Maintained: Arrange for someone to mow your lawn if you’re going away for more than a week. An unkempt garden can be a giveaway that no one is home.
Enhance Overall Home Security
While the garage is important, you’ll want to make sure the rest of your home is secure as well:
Install Security Cameras: Visible cameras can deter burglars, and modern systems allow you to monitor your home from anywhere in the world. Opt for cameras with motion detection and night vision for maximum effectiveness.
Upgrade Your Locks: Ensure that all doors and windows have strong locks. Consider installing deadbolts and reinforcing the doors with strike plates for added security.
Use Window Coverings Wisely: Keep valuables out of sight by closing blinds or curtains. This prevents prying eyes from assessing what’s inside your home.
Enlist Help from Neighbours
A trusted neighbour can be an invaluable ally in keeping your home safe while you’re away:
Ask for Help: Inform a neighbour of your travel plans and ask them to keep an eye on your property. They can also park in your driveway occasionally to give the appearance of someone being home.
Share Contact Information: Make sure your neighbour has your contact information in case they need to reach you in an emergency. You might also want to exchange details with another neighbour as a backup.
Create a Neighbourhood Watch: Collaborate with nearby neighbours to create a temporary neighbourhood watch. This can involve regularly checking each other’s homes, especially if several houses are unattended during the same period.
Avoid Social Media Announcements
While it’s tempting to share your travel plans on social media, doing so can inadvertently alert criminals to your absence:
Wait to Post: Share your holiday photos and experiences after you’ve returned home. This keeps your travel plans private and reduces the risk of your home being targeted.
Adjust Privacy Settings: Make sure your social media accounts are set to private so that only friends and family can see your posts. Review your friends list to ensure you’re only sharing information with people you trust.
Avoid Location Tags: Even if you’re posting other content, refrain from using location tags that reveal you’re away. You can also disable location services on your social media apps for added privacy.
Taking a few extra precautions before you leave can significantly reduce the risk of a break-in and give you peace of mind while you’re travelling. By securing your garage door and implementing these additional home security measures, you can ensure that your home remains safe and sound until you return.
If you need assistance with upgrading your garage door security or have any questions about smart garage door openers, don’t hesitate to contact us. We’re here to help you protect what matters most!