As the weather starts to turn warmer and Spring Break approaches, many of us will take this opportunity to head out of town. Unfortunately, thieves also will take advantage of this opportunity. Whether leaving home for a few days, a few weeks, or even a few hours, the Naperville Police Department would like to remind residents to safeguard their homes and valuables before heading out.
An unoccupied home is an easy target for a potential burglary. Fake out burglars by making your home looked “lived in” while away. Set interior lights (and not just one) on timers and exterior lights on timers or motion sensors. Exterior lights should be on from dusk until dawn.
Making your home appear that you never left also means making sure mail is collected (or delivery stopped), deliveries are picked up, garbage cans taken in and out, and exterior maintenance like grass cutting is completed. Enlist a trusted neighbor or family member to keep an eye on your property while you are away.
Prevent easy access to your home by checking that all windows and doors, including garage doors, are closed and locked. It might seem obvious, but double-check just to be sure. You could also turn off your garage door opener to prevent someone from using the exterior keypad. This is especially important if your child has ever shared the garage code with a friend.
Secure all valuables and keep proper documentation on items of high value, such as receipts, appraisals, photos and serial numbers. Don’t leave anything valuable in plain sight.
Technology is a terrific tool for protecting and monitoring your home while you are away. There are a wide range of systems from self-monitored security systems with no monthly fees to professionally monitored systems. Monitoring systems add an extra layer of surveillance, security and protection.
It may be tempting to post on social media a picture of you or your family enjoying your trip, but wait until you are back to post any pictures. You never know who might learn that you are not home and take advantage of the opportunity.
Make home protection a priority to give you peace of mind as you leave town. For more vacation safety and burglary prevention tips, please visit www.naperville.il.us/ASaferNaper.
Until next month… Stay Aware and Stay Safe.
