Keep Your Home Safe During Summer Vacation

Summer is a popular time for travel, road trips and family vacations. Before you head out, take a few simple steps to help keep your home secure while you're away.

Make Your Home Look Lived In

An empty home can be easy to spot. Help make yours look occupied by:

Putting a few interior lights on timers or smart plugs.
Asking a trusted neighbor, friend or family member to pick up mail and packages.
Pausing newspaper or regular deliveries.
Arranging for landscaping or yard maintenance if you're gone for an extended time.

If you have someone checking in on your pets, ask them to vary the lights, bring in mail or packages and make sure gates and doors are secure before they leave.

Lock Up Before You Leave

Do a full walk-through before you go.

Check that all doors, windows, side gates, garage doors and sheds are locked. Don't forget second-story windows, pet doors and sliding glass doors. If you have a security system, test it in advance and set it before you leave.

If you keep a spare key outside, consider removing it while you're away. Burglars know the usual hiding places — under mats, inside planters and above door frames. If someone caring for your home needs access, consider using a lockbox and changing the code before each trip.

Sharing vacation photos is fun, but posting in real time can let others know your home is empty. Consider waiting until you return before sharing photos or travel updates publicly.

You may also want to review your privacy settings and avoid posting details about your travel dates, destination or how long you'll be gone.

Secure Valuables and Outdoor Items

Place valuables, important documents and sentimental items in a secure location. Keep laptops, jewelry, wallets, keys and other valuables out of view from windows.

Bring bicycles, tools and outdoor equipment inside or lock them securely.

Ask a Trusted Neighbor to Keep an Eye Out

Let a trusted neighbor know you'll be away and provide a way to reach you if needed. They can help watch for unexpected packages, open gates, alarms or unusual activity.

Check Outdoor Lighting and Cameras

Motion-sensor lights can help discourage unwanted activity around entry points, driveways and side yards. If you use cameras or a doorbell camera, make sure devices are charged, connected and working before you leave.

Residents and businesses with private security cameras may also participate in the Palo Alto Police Department's voluntary Neighborhood Security Camera Program. The program helps investigators know where cameras may be located after a crime. Registration is free, and participation does not give police remote access to your camera system.

Take Precautions with Vehicles

If leaving a vehicle at home, lock it and remove valuables, garage openers, keys and personal documents. If possible, park in a garage or well-lit area.

Never leave a spare house key or garage remote inside a vehicle parked outside.

Use Palo Alto Police Resources

The Palo Alto Police Department offers helpful crime prevention information, including home and vehicle safety tips.

If you see suspicious activity while a neighbor is away — or if something looks unusual near your own home — call PAPD's 24-hour nonemergency dispatch center at (650) 329–2413. For emergencies or crimes in progress, call 911.

Taking a few precautions before vacation can help protect your home while you enjoy your time away.

More Online Resources

Learn more about summer safety and crime prevention through these Palo Alto Police Department resources.

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