Summer is prime vacation season—and unfortunately, it’s also peak time for home break-ins. When families head out for a week or two, empty houses can become tempting targets. But with a little planning and some good old-fashioned neighborly cooperation, you can make your home look occupied and reduce the risk of burglary. Here’s how you and your neighbors can look out for each other while you’re away.

Neighborhood Watch – Your Best Line of Defense

A watchful neighbor is one of the most effective deterrents against crime. When neighbors keep an eye on each other’s homes, it creates a sense of community and makes it harder for thieves to go unnoticed.

Let your trusted neighbors know when you’ll be gone and who, if anyone, will be stopping by to water plants or feed pets. That way, they won’t be alarmed by activity around your home. If your neighborhood has a local watch group or uses apps like Nextdoor, share your travel dates privately and coordinate with others to keep an eye on each other’s properties.

Create the Illusion of Activity

A house that looks deserted is easy to spot. The goal is to create small signs of life that make it appear someone’s home.

• Use light timers or smart plugs to turn lamps and outdoor lights on and off at different times.
• Leave blinds and curtains in varied positions—not fully open or closed for days on end.
• Ask a neighbor to park in your driveway occasionally or leave your own car visible.
• Have someone roll your trash bins to the curb on collection day and bring them back in.
• Keep a few everyday items visible, like a pair of shoes by the door or a garden hose on the lawn.

It’s the little details that matter. Burglars look for signs of absence, not necessarily signs of wealth.

Mail, Packages, and Deliveries

An overflowing mailbox or a pile of packages on the porch is a clear giveaway that no one’s home. Ask a neighbor to collect your mail, or use the USPS Hold Mail service to pause delivery while you’re away.

If you’re expecting packages, reschedule deliveries or use an Amazon Locker or similar pickup point. A box sitting outside for days isn’t just a theft risk—it’s an open invitation that your home is empty.

Keep the Yard in Shape

An unkempt yard can signal that a house is vacant. Arrange for someone to mow the lawn, water plants, or trim bushes while you’re gone. Offer to return the favor when your neighbor takes their own trip—it’s a simple way to build trust and keep the neighborhood looking cared for.

If you have motion-activated outdoor lights, make sure they’re working properly. Sudden light can startle intruders and draw attention from nearby homes.

Be Smart About Social Media

It’s tempting to post vacation photos in real time, but it’s safer to wait until you’re back home. Public posts about being “off to the beach for two weeks” can unintentionally alert the wrong people that your house is empty.

Instead, enjoy your trip without worrying about likes and comments—your memories will still be there when you return.

Technology for Peace of Mind

Smart home technology can add an extra layer of security. Video doorbells, motion sensors, and connected cameras can send alerts straight to your phone. Some systems even let you turn lights on remotely or check live footage if something seems off.

Still, technology works best when combined with human connection. A friendly neighbor who knows your routine can often spot something suspicious faster than any app.

A Shared Responsibility for Safety

Making your home look lived-in isn’t just about protecting your own property—it’s about strengthening your community. When neighbors look out for one another, everyone benefits.

So before you pack your bags, take a few minutes to talk with your neighbors. A simple agreement to keep an eye on each other’s homes might be the best travel preparation you make this year.