Protecting Your Home During a Utah Vacation

Your Home Is Most Vulnerable When You're Away

Residential burglaries spike during vacation seasons and summer months. A home that appears vacant for multiple days is a prime target. Before you head out on your next Utah adventure, make sure your home is properly secured.

Before You Leave

Secure All Entry Points

• Test every exterior door lock — front, back, and side
• Verify all windows are locked, including upper floors
• Lock the garage door AND the interior door connecting to your house
• Secure sliding glass doors with a security bar

Lighting and Timers

Set interior lights on smart plugs or timer switches to turn on and off at normal hours. Motion-activated exterior lighting should be verified as functional. A completely dark house is a clear signal that no one is home.

Mail and Packages

A full mailbox or pile of delivered packages screams 'nobody's home.' Put a hold on your mail through USPS, and either halt deliveries or arrange for a neighbor to collect packages.

Social Media

Resist the urge to post about your trip until you return. Oversharing vacation photos in real time tells criminals your home is empty.

Trusted Neighbor or House Sitter

Ask a neighbor to keep an eye on your property, collect packages, and park occasionally in your driveway to create the appearance of activity.

Technology Options

• Smart cameras: Monitor your home remotely from anywhere
• Smart locks: Get entry notifications and lock/unlock remotely
• Smart doorbells: See and speak to anyone who approaches your door
• Alarm systems: Immediate notification if any entry is triggered

When You Return

If anything looks suspicious when you return — a displaced mat, a tampered window, an open door — don't go inside. Call the police first. After everything is clear, call Provo Locksmith UT at (385) 283-6134 if you need any locks changed or security assessed.