Summertime is a very big time of year for vacations. The last thing on people's minds when they are vacationing on a cruise ship, an island, a beach or wherever your travels take you, is what is going on at home. Well, you should at least take care of your home before you leave to prevent a bad situation to come home to. For anybody who has had their house robbed they know that it is not a pleasant thing. Trust me, I have been there. So, in lieu of the situation I want to pass along some tips that everyone should follow to safeguard from some potential disasters. One of the times your home is most vulnerable is when it is left empty for an extended period of time. Darkened windows, unretrieved mail or newspapers and closed windows in hotter weather all advertise an empty house to a potential burglar. Here are a couple of ideas to consider.

1. Have a housesitter. A friend or family member who you trust to stay at your house while you are gone is a great way to fool burglars.

2. If you can't get a housesitter then have a neighbor check on your apartment or home while you are gone. Have them turn on some lights or the tv and radio to give the illusion of life.

3. Keep a radio or tv on a timer if nothing else fails. TV noise would immediately give the illusion of somebody being home.

4. A BIG MUST---Make sure whomever is watching your home knows how to work all the alarms in the house and knows the code to turn it on or off. They should also know who to call in case of a problem.

5. Unless there is going to be a housesitter, you must have your mail stopped. Even if it is for a couple of days. A stack of mail is a dead giveaway to a burglar. Also have a neighbor keep an eye out for packages that may be delivered too. Have them pick them up and hold them for you.

6. Make sure you have your garden and plants watered to make it seem like there is some kind of life. Especially if your garden is usually spectacular.

7. Apartment users---Check your lease. Many landlords require that you notify them if your apartment is going to be left empty for any period of time. This is so they can enter in case of an emergency. With a housesitter this is not necessary.

This is just a few tips to get your through the summer and enjoy it.

Enjoy your vacations
Adam Walls