24 Hour Emergency Response 604-644-9229 (BC) 780-995-9229 (AB) 416-628-3393 (ON)
24 Hour Emergency Response 604-644-9229 (BC) 780-995-9229 (AB) 416-628-3393 (ON)
For Canadian snowbirds who head south to escape the cold, leaving a home empty for weeks or even months poses real risks. Unattended properties are especially vulnerable to break-ins, weather damage, and unnoticed emergencies. While you’re enjoying the sun, your house could be dealing with frozen pipes or attracting the wrong kind of attention. The good news? With the right home security plan in place, you can reduce those risks significantly. Here’s how to make sure your home stays safe and sound while you’re away.
Winter presents a unique set of challenges for home security. Long, dark nights provide more cover for intruders, while freezing temperatures increase the risk of burst pipes and structural damage. Homes that appear unoccupied are easy targets, especially in quieter suburban areas where snow accumulation and dark windows reveal no signs of activity. For snowbirds, that means taking proactive, layered steps to secure your home is not optional; it’s essential.
A modern home alarm system offers far more than a blaring siren. Today’s systems come equipped with features like remote access, motion-activated sensors, and mobile app integration that allow you to monitor your home from wherever you are. Real-time alerts sent directly to your smartphone can notify you the moment any unexpected activity is detected.
Many home alarm systems now include video surveillance, so you can check in on your home visually at any time. Motion-triggered cameras, doorbell cameras, and smart locks provide even more control and awareness. These systems are a foundational part of any reliable home security plan.
A dark house is one of the clearest signs that nobody’s home. With timed lighting, you can make it appear that someone is there, even when you’re miles away. Set lights to turn on and off at various times in the morning and evening to simulate daily routines.
Be strategic with placement. Use timers for porch lights, living room lamps, and bedroom lights. Consider motion-activated lights outdoors to deter anyone approaching the property. Smart light systems even let you control your lighting from your phone, adjusting the schedule as needed.
There’s no replacement for a physical presence. Hiring residential security guards or scheduling drive-by patrols adds a powerful layer of protection. A visible security presence acts as a deterrent and ensures there is someone actively monitoring the property on a regular basis.
Professional guards from Optimum Security are trained to detect suspicious behaviour, check access points, and respond to alarms or emergencies. It’s a service that offers far more than just peace of mind; it provides real accountability and rapid response in the event of trouble.
Learn more about our residential security guard services.
Before heading out, do a full sweep of your home’s exterior. Lock all doors and windows, including basement entries, garage doors, and sheds. It might seem obvious, but double-checking every potential access point can prevent a simple mistake from turning into a disaster.
Don’t leave a key under a mat or in a planter. These are the first places intruders check. If someone needs access to your home, use a secure lockbox or smart lock with limited access codes.
Winter weather is unpredictable, and a frozen pipe can cause serious damage before anyone notices. Turn off your water main before you leave, especially if you’ll be gone for an extended period. Keep your thermostat set to a safe temperature, usually around 15°C, to prevent freezing.
Inspect insulation in attics and basements, and install water sensors or temperature monitoring devices that alert you to potential issues. These simple steps can prevent costly water damage and ensure your home’s internal systems stay protected.
Planning ahead doesn’t just keep your house safe while you’re away; it protects your investment for the long haul. Proactive home security reduces the risk of major repairs, helps maintain your property value, and may even lower your home insurance premiums. More importantly, it lets you enjoy your time away without constantly worrying about what’s happening back home.
While it’s common to ask a neighbour to keep an eye on things, this should never be your sole plan. Even the most well-meaning friends can forget, get busy, or miss warning signs. They aren’t equipped to respond to emergencies or monitor your home 24/7.
Professional security services like those from Optimum Security offer consistency, experience, and accountability. You get trained personnel, real-time communication, and confidence that someone is always watching your home with your best interest in mind.
Leaving your house for the winter doesn’t have to mean leaving it vulnerable. With the right combination of smart technology, physical presence, and professional oversight, you can protect your home and your peace of mind.
Optimum Security specializes in reliable, customized home security solutions designed to keep snowbirds covered all winter long.
Reach out to Optimum Security today at (604)-644-9229, email us at info@optimumsecurity.ca, or click here to get in touch online.
