By following these tips you can reduce your summer cooling bills and enjoy a more comfortable and energy-efficient home.

If you’re ready for a summer vacay, make sure to secure your home while you’re away with these tips.

– A monitored home security system can help deter burglars and notify you and the authorities in case of a break-in.

– Ask a trusted neighbor to keep an eye on your property — they can alert you or authorities in case of any suspicious activity.

– Contact your postal service and other regular deliveries to put a hold on all until you return.

– Use timers to turn on lights or a TV at random intervals to make it appear that someone is home.

Make sure all doors and windows are locked before you leave and even consider reinforcing them with further safety devices.