Scary but True: 5 Things That Can Go Wrong When You’re Away from Home
Vacations, weekend getaways, and fall festivals are meant for fun.
But nothing ruins a trip faster than coming home to a problem you could have prevented. From unexpected leaks to break-ins, the truth is that a lot can go wrong when you’re away from home for even a few days.
That’s why home security while away isn’t just a convenience. It’s a must. Smart home systems give Myrtle Beach homeowners total control, even when they’re miles away. Keep an eye on your home, your business and your family, all through your device-of-choice.
Let’s look at five ‘scary but true’ scenarios that happen more often than you’d think, and how Strand Security can help stop them before they start.
1. Water Leaks That Turn Into Floods
A small drip can quickly become a major disaster when no one’s home to notice. Burst pipes, leaky washing machines, and water heater failures are among the most common (and costly) issues homeowners face while traveling. Yikes. That doesn’t sound good, right?
With smart water sensors and leak detectors, key tools in home security while away, you can receive instant alerts if moisture is detected anywhere in your home.
You can even connect these sensors to smart valves that automatically shut off the water supply. That’s one less nightmare to return to after your trip.
If you’ve ever worried about potential water damage, smart water sensors are the smartest choice.
2. Break-Ins and Property Theft
An empty home can attract unwanted attention. Burglars often look for signs that no one’s around. This looks like piled-up mail or newspapers, dark windows at night, or no cars in the driveway.
Unfortunately, many break-ins happen during predictable vacation seasons.
A Strand Security system protects your home with monitored alarms, smart locks, and visible cameras that deter intruders before they act. You can check camera feeds in real time, receive door and motion alerts, and even adjust lighting remotely to make it appear someone’s home. That’s home security while away made simple and effective.
3. Fires or Smoke Damage
Imagine being hours away when a fire alarm goes off at home. Without monitoring, you might not find out until the damage is done. Cooking equipment, HVAC malfunctions, and electrical issues can all start fires, often while homes are empty.
Professionally monitored smoke and carbon monoxide detectors ensure that emergency responders are notified right away, even if you’re unreachable. These devices are a critical part of modern smart home systems, especially in coastal South Carolina where older homes and humidity can increase electrical risks.
4. Power Outages and System Failures
Even a brief power outage can disable key systems or compromise your home’s safety. Refrigerators shut off, sump pumps stop running, and camera systems lose connection.
To ensure reliable home security while away, invest in smart backup power options like battery backups for alarm panels, cellular signal failover, and even small generators that keep cameras and sensors running. These backups are especially valuable in Myrtle Beach and Horry County, where storms and power flickers are common in the fall.
5. Storm Damage You Don’t See Coming
Fall in South Carolina still means hurricane season. Heavy rain, wind, and flooding can cause roof leaks, debris damage, or even security breaches from broken windows or doors.
A smart home system can’t stop the weather, but it can alert you the moment something goes wrong.
Outdoor cameras, motion sensors, and glass-break detectors notify you immediately if there’s movement or damage around your property. You can even have local contacts or family members check in safely using live camera access.
Why Smart Home Security While Away Matters
It’s not only about peace of mind, it’s about preventing accidents and emergencies before they happen. Smart home monitoring combines automation, sensors, and professional surveillance so you can manage your home as if you never left.
Whether it’s adjusting thermostats, turning on lights, or checking video feeds, staying connected means fewer surprises when you return.
Plus, having home security while away often lowers insurance risks and demonstrates proactive protection. This is a clear benefit for property owners, landlords, and second-home investors across the Grand Strand.
Stay Safe with Strand Security
At Strand Security, we’ve seen firsthand how quickly small issues become major problems. Our team designs customized systems to help Myrtle Beach homeowners monitor and protect their properties around the clock. From smart sensors to full monitoring packages, we make sure you can travel confidently knowing your home is secure.
Don’t wait until a ‘scary but true’ story happens to you. Whether you’re heading out for a weekend trip or a long vacation, make sure your home is protected with the latest smart security solutions.
📞 Contact Strand Security today to schedule a free consultation or visit our Myrtle Beach showroom to explore options that keep your home safe, wherever you are.
