Planning a getaway? Whether your destination is Disney World or a secluded spot in the North Georgia Mountains, there are some things you can do to keep your home safe while you’re away.

Don’t worry, none of them involve hiring a security guard or setting up booby traps of “Home Alone” proportions. Instead, these simple tips from the Insurance Information Institute will help make sure your home remains safe and sound without you in it.

Don’t announce your vacation plans on social media. You may be surprised at how many thieves use social media to figure out which homes they want to burglarize. Share your wonderful vacation with your Dacula friends after you return.

Make a break-in time consuming: Dead-bolt your doors and stick wooden dowels in your windows to slow burglars down.

Make a break-in noisy: Invest in a burglar alarm. The most effective systems ring at an outside service, which alerts police, fire and other emergency personnel.

Keep valuables out of sight: Don’t give would-be crooks a reason to break into your home. Keep cash, jewelry and other valuables out of sight. Consider investing in a safe for your valuables that is bolted to the floor or wall.

Keep your home well lit: Mount exterior lights out of reach in your yard or on your house. Consider installing outdoor lights with a motion sensor or a dawn to dusk feature. Put indoor lights on a timer so that they go on and off at appropriate times, making it look as if the house is occupied.

Arrange to have mail picked up or held by the Dacula or Lawrenceville post office: Stop newspaper deliveries and have your mail picked up by a trusted friend or neighbor.

If you’d like to read a bit more, here’s a tip sheet from the Insurance Information Institute.

We are available to help you answer any of your home or condo insurance questions.