Leaving for Vacation? 9 Security Moves to Make Before You Lock the Door

An empty house is a burglar's favorite opportunity. But a few smart moves before you walk out the door can make your home look lived-in — and make a break-in far less likely while you're gone.

1. Make it look like someone's home

Burglars watch for signs a house is empty: dark windows at night, no movement, piled-up mail. Put a few lamps on smart plugs or timers so lights turn on and off at realistic intervals.

2. Hold the mail and packages

A stuffed mailbox and packages on the porch are dead giveaways. Submit a hold with the USPS and pause Amazon deliveries, or ask a trusted neighbor to collect them daily.

3. Arm your system — every time

It sounds obvious, but people forget. Arm your security system before you leave, and make sure anyone with a code (house sitters, pet sitters) knows how to use it.

4. Lock every entry point — not just the front door

Check the back door, the garage entry, the basement window, the side gate. The lock you forget is the one a burglar finds.

5. Don't broadcast your trip on social media

Wait until you're home to post the beach photos. "We're in Florida for two weeks!" is an open invitation to anyone who can see your profile.

6. Adjust your cameras and alerts

If you have smart cameras, set them to alert your phone on motion. Consider sharing live feeds with a neighbor or family member who can act if something looks off.

7. Secure the garage

Garage doors are a common weak point. Unplug the opener if you can, or lock it manually, and make sure the interior door to the house is locked too.

8. Ask a neighbor to keep an eye out

A good neighbor is better than any gadget. Ask someone you trust to park in your driveway occasionally and do a quick walk-around.

9. Keep your monitoring contact info current

Make sure your monitoring center has your updated contact list and any temporary instructions — like who has a key while you're away.

Leave with peace of mind

With a professionally installed system and 24/7 monitoring, your home is watched even when you're not there. Claim your $1,200 free equipment kit and travel knowing your home is protected.