AG reminds citizens to protect homes on vacations

CHARLESTON — West Virginia Attorney General Patrick Morrisey is urging citizens to be diligent in protecting their homes while they are away for summer vacations.

“Summer vacations and long-weekend getaways are a tradition for many families, and nothing is worse that coming home to find that your home has been broken into,” Morrisey said in a press release. “That is why we are encouraging people to be cautious when they post pictures or information on social media sites.

"Many would-be burglars browse social media sites for notices and updates while people are on vacation, and then use that information to break into your home. Stay safe: Hold off on posting details about your trip until you come home."

Here are other tips to keep your home safe while you are away for the holidays:

* Do not broadcast your holiday plans on your home voicemail or email.

* If you have a neighbor or person nearby you can trust, ask them to keep an eye on things while you are away. Ask them to collect the newspapers and mail so they don’t pile up.

* Make sure that all doors and windows are locked before leaving.

* Use light timers to create the appearance that someone is home.

* Keep your valuables safe and locked away securely.

“Spending the time with your family and creating memories is one of the best parts about this time of year,” Morrisey said. “By taking the time to secure your home before leaving, you can prevent yourself from becoming a victim of a home break-in.

"No one wants to spend their summer fixing damage to their home or replacing lost valuables, so be careful and cautious when you travel.”