How to keep your home safe when you leave town

As winter approaches and you feel the first brisk wind, many have only one thing on their mind: getting out of town. But there are many risks for leaving your homes for this extended period of time.

Here are some things to keep in mind while protecting your house against burglaries:

1. Give the appearance that you are still at home. Leave timers on your lights so they turn on at night; open your curtains and blinds into the position you would usually keep them without showing your valuables; have a neighbor pick up your mail and newspapers; or ask a neighbor to shovel your driveway and sidewalk or, during the summer, have them mow the lawn.

2. A common mistake for pet owners is leaving your doggy door unlocked. Make sure it’s secure before leaving for your vacation.

3. Set the alarm and lock your doors and windows. Don’t forget the upstairs, too!

4. Notify the police if you plan on having an extended vacation. The Huntley Police Department has “vacation house watch” forms to fill out where you can claim any vehicles, pets, alarms, and house sitters that they should be aware of.

5. Make sure all appliances are off and unplugged.

Some tips on having a safe, worry free vacation:

1. Set your thermostat to a setting that will not make your utility bills skyrocket.

2. Take any valuables you are not bringing with you to the bank or family for safekeeping.

On average, there are about 180 burglaries per year, according to the Village of Huntley.

There are still many other precautions to take that have not been included, and if you have any tips, you are invited to leave comments in the article at mysundaynews.com.

So before leaving for vacation, don’t forget to lock your doors, tell your neighbors, and be smart.

And always remember, winter is coming.

Bob Gienko contributed to this report.

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