SUMMER SAFETY TIPS FOR ALL…….

You have waited all year and it’s time to relax away from home. According to the Federal Bureau of Investigation, however, statistics show that July and August are the busiest months for burglars who love your being away almost as much as you do.
There are many ways to avoid becoming a victim of these menacing threats to our homes and lives. Here are some tips from the FBI, The Home Safety Council and this REALTOR that may serve to keep your homes secure while you enjoy much deserved time away:

1.Do not leave recorded messages that you are “out of town”.
2.Do not leave any key anywhere except in the hand of your REALTOR, a trusted friend or family member who will bring in your mail and any periodicals or newspapers while you are away.
3.Keep bushes, shrubs and any plantings trimmed under windows so burglars can not hide in them. (If your home is on the market, REALTORS don’t like hidden burglars at all.)
4.Let your trusted neighbors know that you will be away and that you are not expecting any visitors so that they may call the police about suspicious activity around your home. (Your REALTOR is NOT to be carted away)
5.All doors, windows, garages and sheds should have working locks.
6.Be sure the automatic garage door has been completely closed as you leave.
7.Make one last trip around the home to be sure all sliding glass doors, side doors, bulkheads etc are locked and secured.
8.Store ladders securely away in locked garage or shed so that they can not be used to access the home.
9.Use timers for selected lights or outdoor water sprinklers to make it appear that someone is home.
10.Mow the lawn one last time just before you leave. (Tall grass suggests that the homeowner may be away).
11.Put bright lights over porches and walk ways in front and back yards.
12.Do not leave any toys, tools or equipment in the yard.

Have the time of your good lives this summer and come home to your properties refreshed and happy. For those of you whose homes are on the market, just come home ready to close!

Broker/Realtor Janet Hilton is a former practicing attorney and critical care RN who with her husband retired Lynn Fire Lieutenant George Hilton owns and operates REMAX Country Crossroads at 144 Newburyport Turnpike in the Rowley Plaza. For excellence in providing Real Estate services, call the office 978-948-5333 or visit www.countrycrossroadsrealty.com.