10 Tips for Boosting Your Home Security this Summer

Summer is the season of vacations, backyard barbecues, and soaking up the sun, but it also brings some unique challenges for home security. Think about it - with everyone jetting off for their summer holidays, homes are often left empty for days or even weeks at a time, making them targets for burglars. Plus, in the quest to keep cool, many of us leave windows and doors open, which can be an open invitation to intruders. Even summer storms can knock out power and disable security systems. All these factors combine to make summer a surprisingly vulnerable time for home security, but with a few simple precautions, you can keep your home safe and enjoy the season worry-free.

These ten summer home security tips will ensure you can enjoy your getaway without a hitch. So, let's dive in and make sure your home is just as comfortable when you’re gone as it is when you're there!

1. Keep Windows and Doors Locked and Closed

It might sound obvious, but you'd be surprised how many people forget this simple step in the pre-vacation rush. We know having windows and doors open during heatwaves can be a lifesaver, but you must remember to lock them when you’re not home or are asleep.

2. Install a Home Security System

A robust home security system is a great investment for homeowners and renters. Modern systems come with cameras, alarms, and even smart technology that lets you monitor your home from your smartphone. These systems provide peace of mind, knowing you can keep an eye on your property no matter where you are.

3. Keep Valuable Items Out of Sight

Avoid leaving expensive gadgets, jewelry, or other valuable items in plain view of windows. If a potential burglar can’t see anything worth taking, they might not be tempted to break in. Plus, keeping your curtains and blinds closed while you’re out can help avoid outsiders from being enticed to sneak in.

Don’t forget about your vehicles—they can be targets, too! Make sure any valuables inside are hidden or brought indoors. Avoid leaving your garage door opener in your car, particularly if you have an attached garage as this could provide easy access into your home.

4. Add Outdoor Motion-Activated Lights

Bright lights can mess up a burglar's plans and keep yours of visiting family intact. Stick up some motion-activated lights around your home—they'll spook anyone thinking of sneaking around and make your home a lot less of a target.

5. Make it Seem Like You’re Home

Timers for lights, radios or TVs can create the illusion that someone is home. Setting these up can make it look like you never left, keeping any potential risks limited. If you have family members or trusted neighbors willing, they can also take care of things and check in while you're away.

6. Be Conscious of Spare Keys

Spare keys under the doormat or in the flowerpot are no longer clever hiding spots. Avoid hiding your extra key in plain sight in one of these common locations like under your door mat orpotted plant, on the door frame itself or in a flowerpot by the door. Consider leaving a spare with a trusted neighbor or friend instead.

7. Light Up Your Property

Good lighting can help keep your space safe. Ensuring your home’s exterior, especially entry points, is well-lit can deter intruders. Another way to deter intruders is having motion sensor lights which react to movement on the property. Solar-powered lights are a cost-effective, eco-friendly option!

8. Be Careful When Posting on Social Media

We all love sharing vacation snaps but be cautious about broadcasting when you’re going out of town. Save those posts for when you return, so you don’t inadvertently tell people that your home is vacant. As tempting as it may be to post your airport check-in, consider setting your social media profiles to private temporarily or posting your holiday photos once you’re back.

9. Position Access Sensors on Windows and Backdoors

Access sensors can notify you of any attempts to open windows or doors. Placing these in strategic locations can add an extra layer of security and keep you informed about what is happening in your home. It’s also helpful if you have young children in the house, alerting you if one of them tries to open a window or door.

10. Get Routine Maintenance Inspections

Ensuring the integrity of entryways, like doors, windows and garages, can prevent possible break-ins. When summer comes around and high temperatures become the norm, it’s not just us who feel the heat—our doors do too. Wooden and PVC doors can swell or shrink in hot temperatures, which can leave your home’s security vulnerable. These drastic changes can tamper with the locking system, making it difficult to lock or unlock your door.

At WIN, with over 30 years of experience in the home inspection industry, our Healthy Home Check is designed to identify any vulnerabilities in your home’s security, like in windows, doors or foundations. As the top-rated home inspector company, we care about keeping your home safe over the summer as much as you do.

Conclusion

At WIN Home Inspection, your home’s security is our priority. We understand the importance of keeping your home and family safe, especially when you’re away enjoying life. With these tips and our expert services, you can rest easy knowing your home is in good hands. So go ahead, soak up the sun, explore new places, and make wonderful memories—your home will be safe and sound until you return. Happy vacationing!