* Notify your family and local law enforcement agency of your departure and return dates but don’t otherwise publicize your travel or vacation plans. Leave contact numbers with appropriate mission personnel.
* Arrange to have a friend or colleague pick up your newspapers, mail, or other deliveries daily.
* Secure your home. Close and lock all windows and doors. Don’t forget to lock garage or gate doors.
* Consider purchasing timers to turn on outside and inside lights automatically at various times throughout the night.
* Check outside lighting and replace older light bulbs. You don’t want a light burning out while you are away.
* Ask a friend or colleague to check your residence periodically, ensuring your furnace or air conditioning is functioning and that timers and lights are working.
* The decision to set the automated alarm system may vary from region to region. Power outages and brownouts may trip alarm systems. Check with your security officer for advice on setting alarm systems when you are away for long periods of time.
* Unplug all unnecessary appliances such as televisions, stereos, and...