According to a report by the National Center of Victims of Crime (NCVC), a home is burglarized every 18 seconds in the United States. If you’re traveling, your home is even more likely to be targeted. Don’t give burglars any hints that you aren’t at home. Here are eight clues that signal to thieves that you’re out of town.
1. Mail in The Mailbox
If your mailbox is overflowing, this is a sign that you’re out of town. You can easily hold your mail at the post office until you return home from your vacation. Through USPS, you can hold your mail for up to 30 days.
2. Packages Left by Your Door
Similarly, packages by your front door will signal to burglars that you’re away. Plus, porch pirates will likely steal your packages while you’re gone. Make sure that you don’t get anything delivered to your home while you’re on vacation.
3. Lights Off
If your lights are consistently off, burglars may take notice and target your home. You can set your lights on a timer with smart home devices like Alexa. Additionally, if your curtains never move and your TV is off, this may signal that you’re away. It may be helpful to ask a neighbor to look after your house while you’re gone. They can open and close the blinds and turn on lights and TVs.
4. No Cars in The Driveway
If your car isn’t in the driveway, this is a clue you’re not home. Try to leave at least one car in the driveway to deter burglars. You may even ask your neighbor to move the car occasionally.
5. Unkept Yard
If your yard is overgrown, you may be telling burglars you’ve been away for a while. It’s best to hire a landscaper to mow your lawn in your absence. If snow is expected, make sure that your driveway and sidewalks are shoveled.
6. Doors Open
Burglars may try your doors and windows if they suspect that you’re away. Almost 30% of burglars enter a home through an unsecured door or window. You may want to invest in a security system or motion sensor lights to deter thieves. Never leave your doors or windows open, and don’t leave a spare key out in obvious places like under doormats. You may also want to install a Ring Doorbell before leaving for vacation so that you can see if anyone tries your door.
7. Social Media Posts
Burglars will often target you on social media before robbing your home. For this reason, don’t tag the location in your social media posts. You may also want to delay posting any vacation pictures until you’re back home.
8. No Trash Out
If you don’t put your trash or recycling cans out, this is another clue that you aren’t home. You can always hire a private trash collection service to collect trash from your garage.
Protecting Your Home
The average loss from burglary is over $2,000. You can protect your home. Let your local neighborhood watch and neighbors know that you’ll be out of town. Install security measures and always secure your home. With a little extra planning and preparation, you can ensure that your home won’t become a target.
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Teri Monroe started her career in communications working for local government and nonprofits. Today, she is a freelance finance and lifestyle writer and small business owner. In her spare time, she loves golfing with her husband, taking her dog Milo on long walks, and playing pickleball with friends.