Simple Steps to Secure Your Home While You're Away this Holiday Season

The holidays are a time for travel—whether you’re heading across the country to see family or just spending a long weekend down the coast. But while you’re packing gifts and planning your route, it’s just as important to think about the home you’re leaving behind. Maine winters can be unpredictable, and an empty house can be more vulnerable to things like freezing temperatures, burst pipes, or unwanted visitors.

The good news? A little preparation goes a long way. With a few simple steps, you can protect your property, prevent costly damage, and enjoy your holiday travels with real peace of mind. Here’s what every homeowner should do before walking out the door this season.

Secure Doors and Windows Thoroughly

The first line of defense for any home is its doors and windows. Burglars often look for easy access points, so make sure yours are well secured.

• Check all locks: Deadbolts on exterior doors provide strong protection. If your locks are old or worn, consider upgrading them before you leave.

• Lock windows tightly: Even windows on upper floors should be locked. Sliding windows can be reinforced with a wooden dowel or metal rod in the track.

• Don’t forget garage doors: Secure your garage door with a strong lock or consider installing a smart garage door opener that you can monitor remotely.

  
  

Taking these steps reduces the chance of forced entry and makes your home less attractive to intruders.

Adjust Lighting to Mimic Occupancy

A dark, unlit house signals that no one is home. Using lighting strategically can make your home appear occupied.

• Use timers on indoor lights: Set lamps and ceiling lights to turn on and off at different times during the evening. This mimics normal activity.

• Outdoor lighting: Motion-activated lights near entrances and pathways deter trespassers. Keep porch lights on a timer or dusk-to-dawn sensor.

• Smart lighting systems: If you have smart bulbs, control them remotely or program them to follow your usual patterns.

  
  

These lighting tricks create the illusion of presence, which can discourage burglars from targeting your home.

Manage Heating and Plumbing Systems

Cold weather during the holidays can cause problems like frozen pipes, which lead to costly repairs.

• Set your thermostat wisely: Keep your home heated to at least 55°F (13°C) to prevent pipes from freezing. Programmable thermostats can maintain this temperature efficiently.

• Shut off water supply: If you plan to be away for an extended period, consider turning off the main water valve and draining pipes.

• Insulate exposed pipes: Wrap pipes in unheated areas with foam insulation to protect them from freezing.

• Ask a neighbor to check: A trusted neighbor can monitor your home’s temperature and plumbing while you’re gone.

  
  

Proper management of heating and plumbing reduces the risk of damage and insurance claims related to winter weather.

Make Your Home Look Lived In

Empty homes stand out. Simple actions can make your property look cared for and occupied.

• Arrange for mail and package pickup: A pile of mail or packages on the doorstep signals absence. Ask a neighbor to collect these or pause deliveries.

• Maintain the yard: If you’re gone for weeks, hire someone to mow the lawn or shovel snow. A well-kept yard suggests someone is home.

• Leave a car in the driveway: If possible, park a vehicle outside or ask a neighbor to do so occasionally.

• Use smart home devices: Cameras, doorbell cameras, and smart speakers can simulate activity and allow you to monitor your home remotely.

  
  

These small details help avoid drawing attention to your absence.

Rely on Trusted Neighbors and Community

Neighbors can be your best allies when you’re away.

• Inform neighbors of your plans: Let them know your travel dates and ask them to watch for suspicious activity.

• Provide contact information: Share your phone number or email so they can reach you if needed.

• Arrange for regular check-ins: Ask neighbors to collect mail, check doors and windows, and report any concerns.

• Join neighborhood watch groups: Being part of a community watch program increases overall security.

  
  

Having trusted neighbors looking out for your home adds an important layer of protection.

Use Modern Home Security Tools

Technology offers many tools to keep your home safe and give you peace of mind.

• Install security cameras: Visible cameras deter burglars and allow you to monitor your property remotely.

• Use smart locks: These let you lock and unlock doors from your phone and provide alerts if someone tries to enter.

• Alarm systems: A monitored alarm can notify authorities quickly in case of break-in.

• Home automation: Control lights, thermostats, and appliances remotely to simulate occupancy.

  
  

Investing in these tools can reduce risk and help you respond quickly if something goes wrong.

Understand Your Insurance Coverage

Knowing how your insurance policy handles holiday risks is crucial.

• Review your policy: Check coverage for theft, vandalism, and weather-related damage like frozen pipes.

• Notify your insurer: Some policies require you to inform them if your home will be vacant for a certain period.

• Document your property: Take photos or videos of valuables before you leave for easier claims if needed.

• Consider additional coverage: If your area is prone to winter damage, ask about endorsements or riders for extra protection.

  
  

Being informed helps you avoid surprises and ensures you have the right coverage during the holiday season.