7 home security to-dos before your summer vacation

(BPT) – As temperatures have risen and summer has arrived, the anticipation of vacation has filled the air. Whether you’re planning a local getaway or an international adventure this summer, ensuring your peace of mind before departure is crucial.To help you with this, here are some tips to keep your home protected while you’re away.Install a home security system. Few things offer the same peace of mind as knowing you can stay close to what’s important to you while you’re away, and when it comes to your home, smart home security products can help. A Ring Alarm Security Kit or Ring camera provides just that — the ability to monitor what’s happening in and around your home, even while you’re away. Ring Alarm offers affordable, commitment free, DIY home security with real-time alerts to the Ring app when your Alarm is triggered. Ring cameras have built-in motion sensors that can alert you in real-time when motion is detected, and features like Live View and Two-Way Talk allow you to see what’s happening on your camera anytime, and have a conversation with anyone on the other end, no matter where you are.Protect your valuables by storing them securely. Don’t forget: visible valuables can be a magnet for unwanted attention, so move them away from windows. Better yet, store valuable items such as important documents, electronics, and jewelry in a designated safe spot at home. Alternatively, you may opt for a safety deposit box to provide an added layer of protection.Avoid hiding spare keys. Putting a key under the mat or in a false rock is an old trick that needs to be retired. Many homeowners still do this, and it’s a bad habit and a major security risk. Investing in a smart lock or leaving a spare key with a trusted neighbor are much safer options.Take a moment to double-check your appliances. Unplug non-essential appliances and electronic devices to prevent electrical fires or damage during your absence. Not only does this promote safety, but it also helps reduce energy consumption while you’re away. For added peace of mind, consider installing smart detectors that can alert you to trouble. With a Ring Alarm Security Kit, you can purchase a separate Ring Alarm Smoke and CO Listener and get alerted via the Ring app anytime your existing smoke and carbon monoxide detectors sound their sirens. Additionally, the Ring Alarm Flood and Freeze Sensor will alert you via the Ring app when water or low temperatures are detected. (Ring Alarm and all Ring Alarm accessories require a subscription for digital arming/disarming and certain other in-app features. For more information on which features require a subscription and subscription pricing, check out ring.com/subscriptions.)Prepare for packages in advance. With summer sales in full swing, a buildup of packages can inadvertently signal an empty home. Amazon Key In-Garage Delivery is a perfect option to prevent that. In-Garage Delivery is exclusive for Amazon Prime members, and is a convenient and secure way to receive Amazon packages. Drivers scan your package to receive one-time access to deliver inside your garage. No need to give out garage codes or let the driver in yourself. The service works with the majority of smart garages, so you may already have what you need to get started. Just select In-Garage Delivery at checkout and Amazon Key will take care of the rest.Add smart lighting throughout your home. Install smart lighting systems or timers to mimic your usual patterns of activity at home. This can create the illusion that someone is present, even when the house is vacant, deterring potential intruders. Utilize smart LED bulbs indoors and smart outdoor lighting, and easily customize control settings from your smartphone.Avoid posting real-time updates on social media. Although it’s tempting to share your vacation excitement on social media, broadcasting your whereabouts while you’re away can inadvertently make your home a target for unwanted visitors. Save the vacation photos and stories to share once you return.Once you’ve checked off everything on your home security checklist, it’s time to kick off your summer adventure with peace of mind knowing your home is well protected.