During the summer months, life tends to feel a bit more relaxed, and while I eagerly anticipate those days with no set schedules, courtesy of my two kids, it’s vital not to let our guard down regarding safety and security. Whether we’re leaving home to spend time at the pool, embarking on a summer getaway, or enjoying one of our favorite day trips, it’s crucial to protect our home, possessions, and personal information throughout the year. Here are seven valuable tips for summer safety that extend beyond the summer season.
- SECURE KEYS FOR HOUSE SITTERS AND DOG WALKERS IN A SAFE LOCATION:
While the idea of leaving keys under the doormat, in the mailbox, or beneath a flower pot may seem convenient, these are not secure options. Instead, consider using a Portable Key Safe like the Master Lock 5422D. You can set your unique combination of up to 12 letters, numbers, or both to ensure that only authorized individuals can access the key inside the Portable Key Safe. - STORE DIGITAL COPIES OF PASSPORTS SAFELY:
If your summer plans include an international trip, take a photo of your passport before departure. Having a copy of your passport can expedite the replacement process at the nearest United States Embassy in case your passport is lost or stolen during your travels. Store a digital copy of your passport securely in a Master Lock Vault account at no cost. - EMPOWER KIDS TO SAFEGUARD THEIR BELONGINGS WITH A CHILD-FRIENDLY BIKE LOCK:
Summer is the perfect time for bike rides. It’s crucial to instill safe riding habits in kids, such as wearing helmets and using reflectors or lights for evening rides. Additionally, teach them to secure their bikes when not in use. Explore the range of child-friendly bike locks at Master Lock Bike to find the one that suits each child best. For further insights into bike safety, refer to my post on bike safety tips. - SNAP A PHOTO OF YOUR KIDS BEFORE HEADING OUT:
Even the most vigilant parents can experience moments when a child momentarily disappears from sight, causing panic. To ease such concerns, snap a photo of your child in their daily outfit with your smartphone. This visual record can be invaluable if your child wanders off in a store, amusement park, zoo, or crowded event. Uploading these daily photos to Master Lock Vault can create a lasting series of snapshots documenting your child’s growth. - SECURE OUTDOOR ITEMS WITH HEAVY-DUTY PADLOCKS:
Before leaving town or spending an evening at a neighbor’s barbecue, take a moment to survey your yard and secure any items that could be used as tools for breaking into your home or stolen during your absence. Store garden tools that could be repurposed for intrusion in your house or lock them in a shed. If you use a shed, consider investing in a sturdy padlock like the Magnum Laminated Padlock M5XDLF to safeguard your belongings, even in adverse weather conditions. - ADD AN EXTRA LAYER OF SECURITY WHERE NECESSARY:
Enhancing home security with additional hardware is always a prudent choice. Consider bolstering your home’s safety by installing locking window latches on lower windows and employing a Master Lock 265DCCSEN door security bar for patio doors. These measures can deter intruders and help keep young children inside. - KEEP ONLINE ACCOUNT PASSWORDS SECURE IN THE CLOUD:
It’s easy to forget essential online account passwords while traveling. To address this issue, transfer your passwords from computer files or traditional notebooks to Master Lock Vault, where they can be stored securely. Files are often one of the first things thieves target when attempting identity theft using stolen computers or devices, and paper journals can easily be lost, stolen, or misplaced during travels, putting your personal information at risk.
