The summer heat has people daydreaming of relaxing with loved ones and taking the vacation they craved for all winter.
With kids off school, a long vacation away from home is desirable, but it can open opportunities for crime to happen. As you plan your vacation itinerary and packing list, take steps to make sure you travel safely and ensure your home is protected while you are gone.
Here are some tips from the Durham Region Police Services to ensure a worry-free holiday for you.
Social Media: Social media can be a big part of your vacation, but posting information while you’re out of town lets others know your home is likely unattended. The best practice is to save your vacation photos and updates until you get home and then share them on your favorite social media sites.
Protecting Your Home: While you are away enjoying your summer getaway, you want to be comfortable knowing your home and property are safe. Taking the following precautions will help:
~Have mail and newspapers picked up by a neighbour or cancel them while away
~Have someone cut your lawn and water plants
~Utilize timers on lights, televisions and radios so it appears the home is lived in
~Let trusted family members or friends know where you are and leave a spare key with them
~Keep garbage bins away from windows/balconies to avoid easy access to your second floor
~Close your curtains to hide the contents of your home
~If you return home and see something suspicious like a broken window or door ajar, contact police and do not enter the home.
Personal Safety: Travelling is a great way to enjoy some time off work, whether it’s a day at the beach or a month long trip overseas safety should be top of mind. The following travel tips for personal safety will give you peace of mind wherever you’re spending your summer.
~Book travel through a reputable agency or website and do some research into the area you will be travelling to
~Make copies of all travel documents including passport and travel insurance information
~Leave expensive items like jewelry and electronics at home of utilize the hotel’s safe deposit box
~Never leave luggage unattended and if driving, pack it in the trunk where it’s out of sight
~Always be aware of your surroundings and present yourself with confidence
~If your instincts tell you something is wrong, trust them
~Try to travel in a group when possible
~Keep all your receipts for customs information
~If you’re travelling to a warmer climate use sunscreen and stay hydrated
Wherever your destination, have a safe and happy vacation!