Lighting your home not only lets others know someone is home, but it also helps promote safety in the community for those who are walking on the sidewalks or in alleyways.
As the skies start to get dark earlier, here are a few tips for safety and vacation protocols.
USE A LIGHT TIMER
Install a timer or motion detector on your exterior lights to come on at dusk. It’s also useful to install a timer for a lamp inside your home to give the appearance you are home, even if you are away.
SECURE VALUABLES
Don’t leave valuables in your vehicles, lock your doors, and ensure your windows are closed and locked. Install locks on your fence gates, too.
TRUST YOUR NEIGHBORS
Tell your neighbors when you will be out of town and leave them with your contact information in case of an emergency. Ask your neighbor to bring in your trash and recycling cans while you’re away and encourage them to park one of their cars in your driveway as well.
REROUTE DELIVERIES
If you plan to go on vacation, stop newspaper and package deliveries and ask your neighbor to promptly remove any solicitation materials or packages until you return. Use an Amazon locker or have packages delivered to an alternative secure location.
TRIM LANDSCAPING
Trim back landscaping so your entryway is visible to others and yourself. Do the same for areas of your property abutting public walkways.
ADDRESS NUMBERS
Make sure your address numbers are clearly visible from the front of your home. It’s the law. This is also useful for police, fire and medical personnel to find you in the event of an emergency.
