1. Automate Your Lighting with Smart Bulbs
Jim Nye, Vivint’s product development director, recommends automating your lighting with smart bulbs. “A property left dark all night can signal to potential intruders that no one’s home. Automated smart lighting, both indoors and outdoors, is a powerful deterrent.” There are smart lighting systems that let you easily set custom schedules through user-friendly apps. On a budget or renting? Plenty of smart bulbs work with existing systems like Alexa or Google Home. Remember, you don’t need smart bulbs in every room—start with those facing the street.
2. Secure All Doors and Windows with Sensors
Before a longer trip, double-check that every window and door is locked. Take a final walk around to catch any hidden basement windows or rarely used back doors. “Installing sensors in advance lets you monitor open doors and windows from a central app, so you can easily secure them before you leave,” Nye explains.
3. Replace Spare Keys with Smart Locks
Pros know where to find spare keys—usually under a rock or near a flowerpot. Smart locks offer a much safer alternative. “You can control smart locks remotely and give unique access codes to friends watching your home while you’re away. Plus, you get real-time notifications about their visits,” Nye says. If installing a smart lock before your trip isn’t possible, hand over the key in person to anyone who needs access—avoid the risks of hiding keys outside.
4. Plan Your Package Deliveries
Ordered sunscreen but it didn’t arrive on time? What about that monthly subscription box scheduled for the day after your trip? Nye advises planning deliveries ahead and using doorbell cameras (often part of wireless doorbell systems).
“Packages left unattended on the porch clearly signal no one’s home and invite theft.” Whenever possible, schedule deliveries before or after your vacation. “If packages must arrive while you’re away, doorbell cameras can deter thieves and alert you when deliveries happen.”
Ask a neighbor to bring in packages while you’re gone—you can return the favor when they’re away. Also, check with your local post office or courier services about holding your mail or adjusting delivery times.
5. Be Mindful on Social Media
Before you hit the road, think about what and when you share on social media. Live vacation posts and videos can signal to burglars that your home is empty. Turn off location services and avoid real-time sharing—save your stories for after you’re back. Also, set your profile so only trusted friends see your posts. This way, you reduce the chance of drawing attention to your empty home while you’re away.
