10-Year Battery Carbon Monoxide Alarm placed in luggage.
Summary

How do you keep your home and family safe during a summer vacation? Protect your home and loved ones with these essential safety tips: pack a portable carbon monoxide alarm, install smart water leak detectors, secure your home with video doorbells and outdoor security cameras, and manage energy use with a smart thermostat’s vacation mode.

How to Keep Your Home and Family Safe During Summer Travel

Learn the best practices to make sure you and your home remain secure and disaster-free while you're enjoying your time away.

Updated: 11/19/25

Travel is at an all-time high, and the summer demand is expected to surpass pre-pandemic levels, according to Reuters. When heading out for a getaway, it's crucial for homeowners to ensure the safety and security of their home, and themselves. From deterring burglars to avoiding disasters, taking proactive measures can reassure homeowners that their whole home is under detection in their absence.

Whether leaving for a few days, a week or the whole summer, homeowners can safeguard their home and their travels with a few helpful tips, including:

  • 1. Stay Safe from the Dangers of Carbon Monoxide (CO)

    Carbon monoxide is a tasteless, odorless and poisonous gas commonly produced from fuel burning devices such as a stove, fireplace or water heater. The best way to detect this deadly gas is by having a functioning carbon monoxide alarm. Whether you are traveling with friends and family, for business, near or far, help yourself and loved ones by packing a portable CO alarm, like the First Alert Travel CO Alarm.

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  • 2. First Alert L1 Water Leak and Freeze Detector Detect Leaks and Flooding

    Water damage can cause significant harm to your home, especially if it goes undetected while you’re away. The First Alert L1 Water Leak and Freeze Detector is a simple yet effective solution to prevent such issues. This device is easy to set up and integrates seamlessly with the First Alert App, allowing you to receive real-time alerts to any changes. Whether it’s a minor leak or a potential freeze, you’ll be informed immediately so you can take action and avoid potential water damage and costly repairs.

  • 3. VX-Series MontageEnhance Security with a Monitored Alarm System
    A monitored alarm system is a critical component of home security. Visible security cameras can deter potential burglars and provide you with real-time updates on any suspicious activity. Equip your home with the First Alert Outdoor Camera and Video Doorbell to keep an eye on your property. These systems can be customized to fit your specific needs by contacting your local security dealer. 

  • 4. Maintain Comfort and Energy Efficiency
    Even when you're miles away, maintaining the comfort and energy efficiency of your home is possible with the Honeywell Home T9 Smart Thermostat. This device offers a “vacation mode,” allowing you to set your desired temperature while you’re away and ensuring a comfortable environment upon your return.
A cozy living room with a Honeywell Home T9 Smart Thermostat on the wall.

For more tips on how to ensure detection, visit Resideo.com

Frequently Asked Questions:

Should I travel with a carbon monoxide alarm?
Yes, carbon monoxide is a tasteless, odorless and poisonous gas. Only 14 states have laws that require CO alarms in hotels, resorts, and other short-term stays. However, some of those states only mandate them in new buildings or in rooms near fuel-burning appliances. The best way to detect this deadly gas is by having a functioning carbon monoxide alarm.

How can I help prevent expensive water damage to my home while traveling?
The First Alert L1 Water Leak and Freeze Detector is a simple yet effective solution to prevent expensive leak and flood damage to your home. This device is easy to set up and integrates seamlessly with the First Alert app, allowing you to receive real-time alerts to any changes.

What security measures should I use to help protect my home when I’m away?
Equip your home with the First Alert Outdoor Camera and Video Doorbell to keep an eye on your property. Visible security cameras can deter potential burglars and provide you with real-time updates on any suspicious activity.

How can I maintain energy efficiency and comfort in my home when I’m traveling?
Even when you're miles away, maintaining the comfort and energy efficiency of your home is possible with the Honeywell Home T9 Smart Thermostat. This device offers a “vacation mode,” allowing you to set your desired temperature while you’re away and ensuring a comfortable environment upon your return.


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