The following is a list of security tips to consider when you and your family are away from home for an extended period of time.

• Place a vacation hold on newspaper subscriptions, mail delivery, and include the start and ending dates.
• Ask a neighbor to pick up newspapers and mail if the vacation hold is not followed. Ask them to remove throwaway papers and circulars from the doorway and mailbox.
• Place interior lights and a radio on timers to give the appearance that the home is occupied.
• Have front exterior lights on photocells that activate in the evening and shut off at daybreak.
• Notify neighbors of your absence and encourage them to contact the police regarding any suspicious activity at your home.
• Arrange to have the grass cut and watered, leaves raked, and the sidewalk and driveway shoveled as necessary.
• Remove all tools, lawn implements, garbage cans and yard furniture to the garage, basement or shed.
• Unplug all non-essential electrical appliances such as computers, fans, television, irons, washers and dryers to avoid damage from electrical storms.
• Be sure the sump pump is functioning properly and free from debris to avoid basement flooding.
• Set the home thermostat at a reasonable temperature - 85 degrees in the summer and 50 degrees in the winter.
• Make sure all entry points into the home are secure.
• Close the fireplace flue to prevent birds and animals from entering.
• If you have an alarm system, leave a current list of contacts with the alarm company in case of system activations.
• Disconnect the electric garage door opener and lock the garage door.
• Be sure all vehicles left home are locked and remove all valuables.

For additional questions or for more information, please contact the Village of New Lenox's Police Department at 815-462-6100.