Police Tips: How to Protect Your Home While on Vacation

Apartments and houses are more often left unattended in summer. Police are reminding residents of simple rules to keep their homes secure while they are away.

Source: @chernihivpatrolpolice

The risk of residential burglaries rises during the summer months as homeowners and tenants head off on vacation. To ensure a worry-free holiday and a safe home, specialists recommend following several straightforward precautions. Install an alarm system — even a budget GSM alert device, or a visible imitation of one, can deter would-be intruders. Make sure your front door and locks are sturdy; residents on the ground and top floors should take extra steps to secure their windows, using bars or reinforced hardware. Before leaving, close all windows, vents, and balcony doors. Create the impression that someone is home: a light timer can discourage potential thieves. Let trusted neighbors know you will be away and ask them to collect your mail and keep an eye out for any suspicious activity near your apartment or house. Store valuables and important documents in a safe or another secure location — never leave them in plain sight. Following these tips will significantly reduce the risk of an unauthorized entry into your home and allow you to enjoy your vacation with peace of mind.