Do your summer plans include extended travel? If so, consider these tips to ensure optimum joy and safety for the whole season through!

> Set exterior and interior lighting systems to rotate on timers.  Installing motion sensors around your home is another way to enhance security.

> Arrange to have your lawn mowed and your garden tended while you're away.

> Ask a neighbor to park in your driveway from time to time to give your home the 'occupied look.'

> Be sure your home alarm system is functioning properly and provide the monitoring station with current contact information.

> Ditch the fake rock and leave your key with a trusted friend or neighbor.

> Use the stick-in-the-track method to secure windows.  Cut a piece of dowel (about 3/8-inch diameter) to sit in the window or door track so it can't slide open.

> Stop newspaper and mail deliveries, or ask a neighbor to pick them up.

> If you're worried about basement break-ins, consider installing decorative bars and have them painted to match the trim of your house (we like CertaPro Painters for these kinds of jobs).

> Lastly, let family and friends know your travel plans, but never broadcast on social networking sites like Twitter!

[main image:Flying Colours Ltd | Photodisc | Thinkstock]