Keeping Your Home Safe and Secure When Vacationing

Keeping Your Home Safe and Secure When Vacationing

Going on vacation should be relaxing, not stressful. Yet every year, thousands of homeowners return to find unexpected damage, theft, or costly repairs that could’ve been prevented. With the right precautions, you can protect your home and truly unwind knowing it’s safe.

Home Security



Invest in a monitored security system. Smart security systems allow you to monitor doors, windows, and cameras directly from your phone—whether you’re in Galveston or Greece.

Lock everything down. Reinforce entry points with quality deadbolts or smart locks. According to the U.S. Department of Justice, most burglaries occur through forced entry on doors and windows. (Bureau of Justice Statistics, 2022)

Fire & Utility Safety



Unplug small appliances, electronics, and chargers before leaving to reduce fire risk.

Check your smoke alarms and carbon-monoxide detectors—replace batteries or units if expired.

If you’ll be away for weeks, shut off your main water supply to avoid leaks, and check that your gas is safely off.

The National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) emphasizes checking smoke alarm functionality twice a year to prevent common household fires. (NFPA, 2023)

Mail, Deliveries & Curb Appearance



Pause mail and newspaper delivery or have a trusted neighbor collect them. An overflowing mailbox signals an empty home.

Keep your lawn maintained; an overgrown yard gives away your absence.

Secure trash bins and outdoor décor before storms. These simple measures reduce risk and maintain curb appeal.

Social Media & Privacy



Resist the urge to post vacation photos until after you return. The Federal Trade Commission warns that publicly sharing travel plans or check-ins online can alert potential criminals to an unoccupied home. (FTC, Consumer Advice, 2023)

Neighborhood Watch & Local Support



Tell a trusted neighbor or friend your travel dates and share a spare key. Ask them to occasionally park in your driveway or bring in mail to make your home appear lived-in.

If your community has a watch group or HOA security patrol, inform them as well—they’re your first line of defense while you’re away.

Extended Absence & Weather Prep



If you’ll be gone for more than a week:

• Arrange for yard work and exterior upkeep.
• Secure outdoor furniture, grills, and planters ahead of potential storms.
• Check your gutters before leaving to prevent backup or flooding.

Final Thought

Vacation is meant for memories, not worries. A few preventive steps—security, fire safety, neighbor awareness, and digital discretion—can make all the difference.

At Cindy Coggins Realty Group, we care about your home long after closing. Whether you’re a new homeowner or a long-time North Texan, we’ll connect you with trusted vendors and resources to keep your property secure year-round.

 📞 Call or Text: (469) 499-7452
📧 Email: cindycoggins@kw.com

Sources:

• Bureau of Justice Statistics. Household Burglary (2022). https://bjs.ojp.gov/
• National Fire Protection Association (NFPA). Smoke Alarms in U.S. Home Fires (2023). https://www.nfpa.org/
• Federal Trade Commission. Protect Your Home When You Travel. (Consumer Advice, 2023). https://consumer.ftc.gov/