As winter approaches, many people set off on vacations to visit friends and family, hit the ski slopes, or escape to warmer, tropical destinations for well-deserved relaxation. If you plan to leave town, it’s essential to consider what you need for winter home security. 

It’s that time of the year when cozy, unoccupied homes can become targets for opportunistic burglars. Homes lacking a security system face a 300% higher risk of break-ins and burglary.

As experts in smart home security, Fluent Home knows a lot about keeping homes safe, especially during the chilly months. In this guide, we’ll share some essential winter home safety tips to help give you peace of mind while you enjoy your winter getaway. 

Home Risks When Vacationing in the Winter

Winter vacations are great for relaxing and making memories, but you’ll likely need vacation home security to keep your home safe during your absence. Here are the two main types of risk to consider:

1. Security Risks

The shorter days and longer nights of winter provide ample cover for break-ins. Homes sitting quiet and dark with unshoveled snow, lights that remain off, or an overflowing mailbox can be a clear sign to opportunistic thieves or vandals that nobody’s home. And if a break-in does occur, it could go unnoticed for a while, especially if you’re off enjoying a longer holiday in a far-off location.

2. Home Damage Risks

Cold weather can wreak havoc on a house left unattended. Consider your pipes, for instance—they’re at risk of freezing and bursting, which can lead to major water damage. And if your heating system decides to take a vacation of its own, the dropping indoor temperature could increase the risk of frozen pipes or damage to your interior.

Snow and ice are other culprits to consider. Heavy accumulation on your roof can weaken the rafters and lead to structural damage like sagging or collapse. Piles of snow around your home can fracture the foundation, causing leaks, mold growth, and even wall and flooring damage indoors. 

And let’s not overlook the risk of pests. An empty, warm home can seem like a five-star hotel to critters seeking shelter from the cold.

6 Winter Home Safety Tips to Implement Before Your Vacation

You’re aware of the winter home security risks—now let’s talk about how to keep your home secure with a few smart moves:

1. Thermostat Settings

Managing your home’s temperature is crucial in preventing issues like frozen pipes. Set your thermostat to a lower temperature than usual to keep costs down but warm enough to prevent pipes from freezing—around 55°F is a good mark. If you’re leaving pets at home while you’re away, you may need to increase the set point to keep them comfortable.

2. Smart Light Bulbs

Nothing screams “nobody’s home” like a house that’s been dark for days. Investing in smart light bulbs lets you control your lights remotely, mimicking your usual activity. You can set them to turn on and off at specific times, giving the impression that the house is occupied. Furthermore, smart bulbs are energy-efficient, saving you money on your electric bill.

3. Security Systems

A robust security system is your best friend when it comes to vacation home security. Modern systems offer everything from alarm monitoring to surveillance cameras, which you can often monitor remotely. Motion, door, and window sensors keep you constantly informed about activities in and around your home.

4. Smart Water Valve

Consider installing a smart water valve to avoid coming home to water-related disasters. This device can detect unusual water flow and automatically shut off the water supply, preventing potential leaks or floods while you’re away.

Fluent Home offers smart water valves that you can turn on or off remotely with the connected mobile app. You can even schedule one of our professionals to install it for you.

5. Flood Detection

For an extra layer of protection, pair the smart water valve with flood detection sensors. These devices are particularly useful in areas prone to flooding, like the basement or near appliances like dishwashers and washing machines. They send instant alerts to your smartphone if water starts to accumulate in your home, allowing for quick action even when you’re miles away.

6. House Sitter

Hiring a house sitter can be a great option if you prefer a more personal touch. They can manage everything from collecting mail to basic home maintenance, ensuring your home remains safe and well cared for during travels. Plus, they’ll be coming and going, turning lights on and off, demonstrating to passersby that someone is home.

By taking these precautions, you can confidently enjoy your winter getaway, knowing your home is safeguarded. Remember, a little planning goes a long way in ensuring your home remains just as you left it. 

Get a Security System from Fluent Today

Choose Fluent Home for your winter home security needs, especially during vacation. Our state-of-the-art products ensure your property remains safe and monitored, regardless of the harsh winter conditions. 

Fluent Home provides advanced technology like remote monitoring and automated systems that adapt to your lifestyle. We offer robust security solutions that are reliable and user-friendly. Trust Fluent Home to keep your sanctuary secure while you enjoy your winter travels worry-free.