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Home security is on the top of most peoples’ minds when they decide to go on vacation. With home security technology growing in leaps and bounds, alarm companies are making it more convenient and more affordable to protect your home with a security system while you’re traveling, but there are some practical steps you can take to protect your home before you leave. Keep in mind that these suggestions may not completely secure your home like a monitored alarm, but they may  help deter any unwanted guests.

Turn on your lights and use light timers. Interior lighting shows signs of life at night, and light timers can send the same message while you’re away from home. Security lights, or motion lights are a good way to protect the exterior of your home. Like light timers, security lights are affordable and easily accessible. Place them at the entryway and back of your home. Home security companies also offer internet-based security applications that can turn your lights on and off using your home alarm.

Being a good neighbor can also help protect your home while you’re away. Neighbors look out for each other, so get to know your neighbors. The more trust you establish with your neighbors by talking with them and inviting them into your home, the more secure your house will be when you’re away. And because burglars know to look for hidden keys, leaving a spare with a trusted neighbor instead of under your doormat is a good option. If you own a home security system, consider leaving your alarm password with a trusted neighbor in the event of a false alarm while you’re traveling. 

Mow your lawn and trim any hedges. While hedges provide additional privacy, they can become a security risk when they are tall enough to become hiding places for potential intruders. Trim them so that they’re no higher than your windowsills.

If you’ve taken steps at home to prevent burglaries while you’re away and want the added protection of an alarm system, make sure you have a home security company build a home alarm based on your family’s needs. In addition to protecting your home against home intrusions, alarms now come with monitored smoke protection and monitored medical protection as well as a host of additional features that can make your home a safe haven no matter how long you plan to be away.