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Going Away Tips |
Here are some very simple, very quick steps you can take before leaving on vacation, that can improve the security of your home while you are away.
First, there are some very obvious steps that may seem foolish to even mention, but you would be surprised how many people forget to take simple steps. So, before we begin, make sure all your doors and windows are locked.
Don't forget the garage door, cellar door, bulkhead and cellar windows. Don't exclude your second floor windows either, they should get locked just like the rest. If you have a door that separates your garage from your home, that should not be forgotten. Now that we have that out of the way, here are some other ideas.
- Keep shades and blinds in the normal position.
- Bring in any outside hide-a-keys.
- Stop, or better yet, have a neighbor pick up your mail every day.
- Put several lights, and even a radio on timers.
- Make sure you have someone either shovel or mow your lawn.
- Don't announce your absence on your answering machine.
- Most importantly, have a responsible friend or neighbor stop by the house every day. Parking in your driveway, picking up mail and newspapers, putting out the garbage, taking care of animals, and just the basic visit will keep the house from getting that abandoned look.
- Don't forget to turn in your "Going Away" form to the Walpole Police.
- Clean out your wallet and purse before going, only bring the essentials.
- Expensive, designer luggage can draw unneeded attention.
- Keep any important medicine, jewelry, and valuables in your carry-on luggage.
- Never pack any item that may be considered a weapon. Consciously check your belongings for items that you may think are trivial, but would trigger concerns at an airport (key chain knives etc.)
- Don't pack anything you don't need.
- Don't display expensive jewelry, cameras, bags and other items that might attract attention.
- Check maps before you go out, so you can tour confidently.
- Stick to well-lighted, well-traveled streets at all times, no shortcuts.
- Don't advertise you are a tourist by leaving guidebooks and maps laying around.
- Make sure everyone in the family, especially children, know the name and address of the hotel you are staying at, and what to do if separated.
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| • Walpole Police Department • Community Committed • |
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