Taking a vacation? Protect your home in Andover or North Andover from burglary while you're away.

The kids are finally out of school here in Andover and North Andover and you may be planning a fun family vacation! Before you go, take some time to think about the best ways to protect your home from a possible burglary while you are away. The post offices in Andover and North Andover will gladly stop the mail while you’re away and deliver it in bulk when you return—no need to make two trips to the post office. A simple phone call to the Boston Globe or the Eagle Tribune will stop the newspaper delivery–you can even donate your undelivered newspapers to a local school program! Obviously be sure to  lock the house up tightly and leave a light on.  Here are a few more ideas which go a step beyond these old stand-bys:

• If you happen to be going away on an extended trip, you may be better off asking a neighbor to pick up your mail and newspaper and bring it into your home each day.
• Invest in  a couple of timers. You can set them to turn a light on and then off at the same time each day. You can also use a timer on a radio or stereo.
• Hire a house sitter in the form of your neighbor’s responsible teen, or work out a system with your neighbor where you can cover their house when they go away and they look after yours when you are away.
• If your neighborhood does not already have a “neighborhood watch” program, be the one to start it. That way you will always have someone to tell your travel plans to.
• Consider purchasing a home security system. Your home will be regularly monitored and many companies offer a neighborhood patrol.  Many will even monitor your home for smoke, water or temperature changes.

Whatever your plans are have a safe, wonderful vacation!