There’s something about a Northern Virginia winter’s night that makes us want to snuggle down inside of our homes. Unfortunately, these early winter evenings can also encourage unscrupulous visitors who want to get inside, too. Here are some tips to help you keep your home safe and cozy this winter.
Technology and social media can be huge helpers in today’s business and personal worlds, and it’s no different for the crime world. Social media applications that automatically tag your whereabouts could be used by potential burglars to find out when you’re away from home. Similarly, posting those minute-by-minute vacation photos can also be a sign that your home has been left on its own. It’s better to wait until you return to let your friends know how much fun it was.
If you will be away for more than one day, ask a friend to stop by and pick up newspapers and flyers left on your doorstep, and randomly open and close window shades. If necessary, they can also shovel the walk or mow the lawn as if you were there to do it yourself. Install a simple plug-in timer to turn lights on and off the way you would if you were home.
If you have a home security system, make sure the control panel can’t be seen from an entry window, or in the reflection from a nearby mirror. Don’t make it easy for intruders to know whether or not the system is armed. Also, keep foundation plantings trimmed back so there’s nowhere for someone to hide while they work on getting into your home.
An easily overlooked signal comes on trash day. Whenever you buy a new big-ticket item, make sure to flatten and conceal the box it came in rather than simply putting it out next to your trash bin. That can be like a neon sign flashing the message that there are new goodies for the taking inside of your house.
We’re fortunate to live in such a great area here in Northern Virginia, but that doesn’t mean we can become complacent about our surroundings. Thinking ahead can make all the difference. Why not think ahead about your real estate needs, too? All of us here at JC Advantage are ready to help you find the perfect place to call home. Call our office today at 703-821-1840, or contact me directly either by email or by phone at 703-268-6380.
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