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10 Ways to Have a Safe and Secure Summer
Mosquitos bites. Sunburn. Bee stings. These are all the hazards that come with summer. But one hazard you may not have thought about is theft. According to the FBI, property crimes tend to spike during the summer months, especially July and August.1 Here are a few easy things you can do to keep this summer safe and secure.
1. Go Green
Many people love gardening and doing projects around the home during the summer, but keeping up your landscaping can do more than improve your curb appeal. Make sure to keep your lawn mowed regularly and trim back shrubbery around the entrance to your home, as well as windows. Un-mowed grass could indicate that you might be on vacation, and overgrown bushes near the entrance to your home make it easier for potential thieves to hide when attempting to break in.
2. Say Hello
Get to know your neighbors. Tell the ones you trust you are leaving town, and ask them to help keep an eye on your home while you are away. They can also help gather newspapers, mail or package deliveries while you are gone.
3. Close It and Lock It Up
While summer is a great time to open up the windows, doors and garages, this can also be an open invitation to thieves. Bikes, patio furniture, portable devices and other valuables left unattended are prime targets for summer criminals. Unlocked cars and campers in the driveway can also be an easy hit.
4. Post It After You’re Home
As tempting as it is to talk about your upcoming vacation on social media channels, this is the best way to tip off thieves that you’re away. Wait to share your vacation memories until you are back home.
5. Replace the Hide-a-Key
It may be tempting to leave a hidden key in case you manage to lose yours, however, fake rocks or keys on door-jams are easy pickings for a thief. Programmable door locks are easy to install in place of your current deadbolt. Use custom key codes so your kids can come in and out with ease, give access to the dog walker, or allow a handyman in to fix the plumbing – all without having to leave the office.
6. Stay Cool
Staying cool is easy with air conditioning, but running the AC can do a number on your wallet. Use a smart thermostat to set routines that fit your family, keeping the house cool when you are home and conserving energy when you are away during the day.
7. Secure your Wi-Fi
When we think of protecting our homes from theft, we may not necessarily think of our Wi-Fi, however, thieves can gain access to shared files or personal information if they can access your internet connection. Never fear. Refer to these tips to help you prevent wireless theft.
8. Rest Easy over Summer Break
It’s great when your kids are old enough to stay home on their own during the summer, but it might be a bit of a nerve-wracking experience, especially it's their first summer by themselves. Give yourself peace of mind when you use the Midco SmartHOME2 app to check your security cameras to see what your kiddos are up to at home while you’re at work.
9. Get Smart
Create the illusion of having someone at home with automation products such as smart bulbs and outlets. Use the app to turn lights on and off, or pair with your Amazon Alexa enabled device and set up routines to keep lights on a schedule, leaving you free to enjoy a worry-free vacation.
10. Invest in Home Security
Home security and automation systems can deter thieves. Burglars say they often look for cameras and security signage before breaking in. Keep in mind most break-ins occur between 10 am and 3 pm.
