Important security tips for many on-the-go homeowners

(WMS) — The average number of vacation days given around the world adds up to about a month of free time for most people. And even though Americans usually can't compete with that level of luxury, they do spend quite a few days away from home. According to a national survey of homeowners conducted by Honeywell, nine out of 10 homeowners travel for pleasure and nearly half travel for business. Many of these people are away for at least 10 days at a time.

In preparation of your next trip, there are certain improvements you can make to your property to offer you peace of mind when you're far from home. Here's some security tips from Honeywell:

• Scale back shrubbery — Greenery surrounding the home creates a tranquil atmosphere and improves curb appeal. Yet, too much thick foliage can create blind spots where potential thieves can lurk. Considering 22 percent of homeowners surveyed are concerned about crime while they are away, trim shrubbery away from windows and doorways so that entry points to your home can easily be seen from the street.

• Assess your lighting needs — Illumination is also a deterrent to would-be burglars. Install motion-detection systems and flood lights to eliminate dark recesses around the house.

• Have your furnace/boiler checked before taking an extended trip — Be sure you are up-to-date on maintenance schedules for the major systems of your home. This way you can leave with reasonable assurance that no catastrophes will occur while you're away.

• Install a telephone access module to your home's heating/cooling system— This item gives you secure, remote control over your heating, ventilation and air conditioning while you are away from home, which can help reduce energy costs. For example, Honeywell's Telephone Access Module can be accessed by any touch-tone telephone, standard phone line and your passcode. Not only can you dial into your system to adjust the temperature of the home, the Telephone Access Module can also call you in case of a heating/cooling system problem. It calls up to three pre-designated numbers, like an office, a neighbor, or even where you'll be staying for your trip.

• Consider emergency water shut-off valves — Rather than completely shutting off your main water entry to the home, install valves that can shut off water to main appliances, like dishwashers and washing machines. This way you'll be able to head off potential leaks and floods at the pass.

• Create a checklist — Write down all of the items you want to double-check before locking up the house. Include those pesky things that haunt you after you've been traveling for hours, like electric coffee pots, stove burners, irons, window locks, etc. Once you physically check off each item you'll feel more secure.

• Make arrangements for pets — Don't leave your pet home alone or unattended for several days; your furry friend could get into potential trouble around the house. By knocking over lighting fixtures, chewing electrical lines or any number of other mischievous activities, he or she may inadvertently cause a disaster like a fire. Instead, find a reliable neighbor or boarding center.

• Consider an alarm/sensor system — Alarms can also provide peace of mind while you're traveling. If they're connected to the local police or fire station, you'll know your house will be checked should the alarm be tripped.

Improve your home before you travel and you'll help ensure you'll have a safe retreat to come home to.