by Elena Finch


* Inform your family and local law enforcement agency of your departure and return dates but don't otherwise publicize your travel or vacation plans. Leave contact numbers with appropriate mission personnel.

* Arrange to have a friend or colleague pick up your newspapers, mail, or other deliveries daily.

* Secure your house. Close and lock all windows and doors. Do not forget to lock garage or gate doors.

* Consider purchasing timers to switch on outside and inside lights automatically at numerous times all through the night.

* Check out outside lighting and change older light bulbs. You do not need a light burning out while you are away.

* Ask a friend or colleague to check out your residence every now and then, ensuring your furnace or air conditioning is functioning and that timers and lights are working.

* The decision to set the automated alarm system may vary from region to region. Power outages and brownouts might trip alarm systems. Talk with your security officer for guidance on setting alarm systems when you're away for long periods of time.

* Unplug all unnecessary appliances such as televisions, stereos, and personal computers.

* Mow your lawn right before leaving; make arrangements to have someone mow it again if you will be away for a prolonged period of time. Also arrange for watering, if that is probably to be required.

* In the winter, make arrangements to have somebody shovel walkways if it snows. At a minimum, have a neighbor walk from the street to your door several times.

* If possible, ask a neighbor to park a car in your driveway (if you're taking yours).

* If you use a phone answering machine, turn off the ringer on the phone. If you do not have an answering machine, unplug or turn off ringers on all telephones.

* Lock all jewelry, important papers, currency, and other important portables in a safe place such as a safe deposit box or home safe.

* Ensure all personal and home insurance policies are up-to-date and that your coverage is adequate.

Preparing your house before you go out on vacation will minimize the chances of a theft whilst you are away. A little bit of common sense to secure your home and belongings will give you peace of mind while you are traveling overseas.

Absolutely nothing will ruin a vacation like knowing your home got broken in to while you were gone. Adhere to these common sense tips to make sure much better security during your travels. An ounce of security prevention is worth a pound of cure. Be secure and have an excellent vacation.






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