1. Put your mail and newspaper on hold or have a neighbor gather each day.
2. Timers on you lights to go on and off at various times. If possible, have your television or radio come on to give the effect someone is home.
3. If possible, park a car in your driveway.
4. Let a responsible neighbor know that you are going away and a contact number to reach you in an emergency.
5. If you have an answering machine, make sure the message indicates you can’t get to the phone not that you are away.
6. Make sure window and doors are secure and locked. Sometimes when rushing to leave on vacation, the locking of the door is overlooked.
7. Arm the security system and advise Alarm Company you are out of town.
8. Hire a house sitter that you trust.
9. Check that all electrical appliances are turned off.
10. Remove perishable foods from the refrigerator.
11. Adjust thermostats to save on electricity.
12. Arrange for lawn care if going for a long period of time.