Summer is just around the corner. It’s a time when vacation plans are starting to take form and you are counting down the days to your upcoming adventure. But not surprisingly, the summer months are when burglary rates skyrocket. Burglars are on the lookout for homes with no activity or eyeing tourists who are good targets for snatching their belongings.

Whether it’s your computer filled with valuable information, a necklace passed down through the generations, or something that is not replaceable, protecting your precious items from getting into the wrong hands, while at home or away, can be achieved by considering the following strategies. Make your vacation one of good memories and fun anecdotes, not worry and stress.

Protect your home while away

1. Notify your alarm company. If you do have an alarm, be sure to let the company know you will be away and who your emergency contact is. This is also a good time to install lighting timers for both inside and outside your home if you do not already have them. Consider getting a surge protector since power surges and outages are common during the summer. A dark house is a clear indicator that you have not been home for several days.
2. Protect your documents. Your personal information is just as likely to be stolen as your expensive jewelry or your other valuables. Consumer Reports suggest you stash your important documents like passports, birth certificates, tax returns, wills, and insurance policies in a waterproof container, a fireproof safe, or a safety deposit box at your bank. If you opt for an in-home safe, bolt it to the floor—preferably a concrete floor since it will be much more difficult for the thief to remove and take with them.
3. Hide your spare house key. Keeping your spare key under the doormat or in a planter may be convenient, but they are predictable hiding spots for thieves. Consider giving your spare key and alarm code (if you have one) to a trusted neighbor or friend who can have access to your house in case of an emergency. With the advent of Ring and other keyless entry systems, you can also give them your access information.
4. Avoid posting on social media. It’s very tempting to post on social media showing your friends and family all the fun you are having. However, this can be a big mistake as you never know who is seeing your posts. Never reveal your location on social media. This could leave you vulnerable to a possible home burglary.
5. Lock everything up. Be sure your computers are shut down, all windows and doors are locked (including your garage), and ensure your valuables are secured in a not-so-obvious location.

Protect your valuables while traveling

3. Only take what you need. Traveling with your valuables can be a pretty risky move. If it is not adding enjoyment to your trip, leave it at home. Flashing expensive jewelry can make you an easy target for criminals. If you must take a few pieces, be sure to keep them with you or in a hotel safe when you are not wearing them.
4. Use the hotel safe. Valuable items are stolen out of hotel rooms all the time. Don’t make the mistake of leaving belongings, such as cash or jewelry, unsecured in your hotel room. If there is not one in the room, ask the concierge if they have a hotel safe you can store your valuables in.
5. Separate money and credit cards. It’s best to keep your money and credit cards separate from each other as pickpocketers can spot a tourist a mile away. This will ensure you do not have all your money and cards taken in one fell swoop.
6. Bring additional identification. If you are traveling out of the country, you will need your passport, but it’s a good idea to bring an extra piece of ID, such as your license, government ID, or anything that can prove who you are should one of them get stolen or lost. Conversely, bring your passport as an additional piece of identification if you are not leaving the country.
7. Secure your desktop and laptop computers. Make sure you have installed all the updates on your devices, including anti-virus, firewall, and anti-spyware software. It’s easy for hackers to get into your computer without all the necessary protections. Consider getting an RFID wallet to keep your information safe.

Last, but not least, be aware of your surroundings. Professional thieves are always on the lookout for tourists. Keep a close eye on your belongings as thieves may try to distract you and abscond with your luggage or shopping bags. Now go have fun and be safe! Happy Travels.