Leaving for Vacation?

Going on a fun vacation this summer? Protect your home while you're away by following a few simple steps in order to kick back and relax on the vacation you deserve.

TCHT House Note #1: Purchase automatic light timers

Make your home light up at different times of the day (specifically at night) so that it appears someone is home. Set the timers for natural times that you would be in your bedroom, kitchen, or even your living room watching tv. If burglars cannot decipher whether you are home or not they are more likely to stay away.

TCHT House Note #2: Schedule lawn care

If you're going to be out of town long enough for your yard to get unruly schedule a lawn care service, or have a trusting neighbor watch and mow your yard once or twice while you are away. Your homes physical appearance is one of the top five things burglars look for. If your home looks abandoned it's an easier target.

TCHT House Note #3: Clean out your car

If you are leaving your car at home while away be sure to leave it in the garage if possible, but also remember to take out the garage door opener and the spare keys. By doing so you eliminate the chance of easy access directly into your home and you decrease the possibility of your car being broken into.

TCHT House Note #4: Stop your mail and newspaper delivery

Call your local Post Office and request for your mail to be held for the amount of time you will be gone for. Your mail will be stopped and you can pick up the mail you receive while away once you are home.

TCHT House Note #5: Wait to post on social media

Hold off on posting your vacation pictures until you are back in town. This decreases the chance of people knowing when and how long you will be away for.

TCHT House Note #6: Turn your phone ringer down

If you still have a landline in your home, turn the volume down. Your landline number is public information and can be easily found. If a burglar wants in bad enough they may attempt to call the line and see whether or not anyone picks up. Its an old fashion way to tell if you're home, but it still works.

*Disclaimer: The above information contains suggestions to keep your home safe while away. The Columbus Home Team cannot guarantee that doing these items will prevent a crime.