Crime rates over summer tend to be considerably higher than the rest of the year. A large portion of these crimes are burglaries, which occur while the homeowners are away on vacation. Fortunately, there are many ways you can protect yourself from crimes such as these if you are planning a break this summer. Here’s a look at some of the best.
Crime rates over summer tend to be considerably higher than the rest of the year. A large portion of these crimes are burglaries, which occur while the homeowners are away on vacation. Fortunately, there are many ways you can protect yourself from crimes such as these if you are planning a break this summer. Here’s a look at some of the best.
Don’t Advertise your Absence
The study of criminology focuses on the science behind the crime. A criminal justice degree online teaches us that, unfortunately, a big percentage of crimes such as burglaries are motivated by a combination of desperation and opportunity. One of the best ways to defend your home is not advertising that you’ve gone.
While it can be tempting to post a countdown to your break on social media, you don’t always know who is seeing these posts. You should also avoid posting pictures on Instagram until you are safely back home.
Check Your Doors and Windows
This might sound obvious, but many crimes could be prevented by simply repairing broken locks and seals on doors and windows. Go around your house one room at a time and make sure they are all safe and sturdy. Do this well in advance of your trip so you’ve got time to repair any that need it.
Tell a Trusted Neighbor
If you’ve got a neighbor you trust, let them know you are going away and ask them to keep an eye on the house for you. You could even ask them to water your plants and make sure any post is out of sight so that it isn’t as obvious no one is home.
Install an Alarm
Nowadays, alarms are cheap, easy to install, and simple to use. Yet you’d be surprised at how many homes still don’t have one. If you haven’t, this is the time to get one. If your home is already fully alarmed, be sure to test it thoroughly before you leave.
Check Your Insurance Policy
It’s a good idea to check your home insurance policy before you leave, just in case the worst happens. Make sure your policy is up to date and all the details are correct. Go through your house and double check that you are insured for the right amount and that any expensive items are listed separately.
Remove Valuables
Again, hopefully, you won’t need to, but as a precaution, you might want to remove any valuables. Taking large items out of your home can make it obvious you are leaving but, small items such as jewelry or anything of sentimental value can easily be removed. Leave them with a friend, family member, or in a safety deposit box while you are away.
Going on vacation is exciting so don’t let worrying about your home ruin it. Start preparing early and take any necessary precautions to make sure you don’t return home to a nasty surprise. If you are interested in learning more about what makes criminals tick, consider a masters in criminal justice online.
Don’t Advertise your Absence
The study of criminology focuses on the science behind the crime. A criminal justice degree online teaches us that, unfortunately, a big percentage of crimes such as burglaries are motivated by a combination of desperation and opportunity. One of the best ways to defend your home is not advertising that you’ve gone.
While it can be tempting to post a countdown to your break on social media, you don’t always know who is seeing these posts. You should also avoid posting pictures on Instagram until you are safely back home.
Check Your Doors and Windows
This might sound obvious, but many crimes could be prevented by simply repairing broken locks and seals on doors and windows. Go around your house one room at a time and make sure they are all safe and sturdy. Do this well in advance of your trip so you’ve got time to repair any that need it.
Tell a Trusted Neighbor
If you’ve got a neighbor you trust, let them know you are going away and ask them to keep an eye on the house for you. You could even ask them to water your plants and make sure any post is out of sight so that it isn’t as obvious no one is home.
Install an Alarm
Nowadays, alarms are cheap, easy to install, and simple to use. Yet you’d be surprised at how many homes still don’t have one. If you haven’t, this is the time to get one. If your home is already fully alarmed, be sure to test it thoroughly before you leave.
Check Your Insurance Policy
It’s a good idea to check your home insurance policy before you leave, just in case the worst happens. Make sure your policy is up to date and all the details are correct. Go through your house and double check that you are insured for the right amount and that any expensive items are listed separately.
Remove Valuables
Again, hopefully, you won’t need to, but as a precaution, you might want to remove any valuables. Taking large items out of your home can make it obvious you are leaving but, small items such as jewelry or anything of sentimental value can easily be removed. Leave them with a friend, family member, or in a safety deposit box while you are away.
Going on vacation is exciting so don’t let worrying about your home ruin it. Start preparing early and take any necessary precautions to make sure you don’t return home to a nasty surprise. If you are interested in learning more about what makes criminals tick, consider a masters in criminal justice online.
