Be aware of home burglars!

According to the FBI, in 2019 the average dollar loss per burglary offense was $2,661.

Before you pack for your vacation, or leave your home for the day, follow the safety tips below to keep your family and home secure while you’re away. Some of the suggestions below can also safeguard your things when you’re home! 

In an oversharing world, resist the urge to mention your trip on social media or in public. Nationwide suggests that you post pictures only once you’re back home. 

Keep doors, windows and garages closed and locked at all times. Consider adding additional deadbolts to exterior doors. 

Going somewhere? Put mail deliveries on hold at the post office, or ask a trusted neighbor to pick it up. Don’t forget to also stop the newspaper and subscriptions deliveries.

Make an inventory of your valuables. Include photos and serial numbers, Nationwide says.

Make it harder for burglars to find your most valuable items! Keep important documents, financial information and small valuables in a fireproof safe, discreetly hidden in your house. And don't keep expensive jewelry on your bedroom dresser.

Turn off your computer and disconnect it from the Internet, suggests the Insurance Information Institute. If you save personal information on your computer, make sure it is difficult to access. You don't want a hacker at work while you are on vacation.

Arrange for shrubs, bushes and your lawn to be trimmed while you’re away.

Use timers on lights and electrical appliances. Use motion sensitive lights around the perimeter of your house. 

Park your car inside the garage, and ask a neighbor to park in your driveway occasionally.

Keep your trash cans emptied.

Form a neighborhood alliance with trusted neighbors to watch out for each other. 

Report all suspicious activity to your police department immediately.