Leaving for Vacation this Weekend? Check your Status!

Friday, July 30, 2010, Halifax, Nova Scotia…Many of us may be leaving our homes for the cottage or vacation this long weekend. Before you leave consider the following…

• Check your social-media status. Have you posted publically that you will be away from your home? By posting this information it may leave your home vulnerable for thieves.

• Can you look inside your window and see expensive items? Keep valuables out of view and keep blinds and drapes closed when you’re not home. Don’t hang keys in the home where they are visible through windows.

• Keep valuable belongings (jewelry, papers, certificates, etc.) out of sight. If possible, keep them in a safety deposit box away from home. Other valuables should be engraved with your name and phone number which will help police identify your property.

• Consider recording the serial number of valuable items and taking photos of these items, note any identifiable markings.

• Arrange to have a trusted friend or family member check your residence while you are away. Ask them to collect your mail and newspapers to make it appear someone is home.