Greetings, eufy community! It’s Ralph “The Ethical Hacker” Echemendia. With the Labor Day holiday approaching fast, I wanted to share some of the best ways to protect yourself and your home while you’re on vacation. A lot of these tips are pretty straightforward, but you’d be surprised how things can slip through the cracks when you’re focused on packing for the trip. Here’s my top recommendations:
- Install a Security System: Use a comprehensive security system that includes alarms, cameras, and motion detectors. Many modern systems, including the eufy ecosystem, can be monitored remotely via smartphone apps.
- Smart Locks: Consider installing smart locks that can be controlled remotely. This allows you to lock and unlock your doors from anywhere.
- Surveillance Cameras: Place cameras at key points around your home, such as entrances, external corridors and driveways. Ensure they are visible to deter potential intruders.
- Motion-Activated Lights: Install motion-activated exterior lights to deter intruders. These lights can also be set up to turn on and off at random intervals to simulate activity.
- Timers for Lights and Electronics: Use timers to turn lights, radios, and TVs on and off at different times to give the appearance that someone is home.
- Maintain Yard: Arrange for someone to mow the lawn, water plants, and take care of any other yard work to keep up the appearance that you haven’t left town.
- Mail and Newspapers: Pause mail and newspaper delivery, or ask a neighbor to collect them daily to avoid a pile-up that signals no one is home.
- Inform Trusted Neighbors: Let a trusted neighbor know you'll be away so they can keep an eye on your property. Provide them with your contact information in case of emergencies.
- Spare Key: Avoid leaving a spare key outside. Instead, give it to a trusted neighbor, family member or friend.
- Social Media: Avoid posting your travel plans on social media until after you return. Broadcasting your absence can make your home a target. Also, be aware that often when you post pictures while on vacation they can contain visual and digital information on your location.
- Check Insurance: Ensure your home insurance is up-to-date and understand what is covered in case of a break-in or other incidents.
- Emergency Contacts: Leave emergency contact information with a neighbor or friend, including details of your itinerary and how to reach you.
By following these best practices, you can significantly reduce the risk of burglary or damage to your home while you're away, creating resilience in your personal and home security. Enjoy the Labor Day holiday and thanks for reading!