Living in Wisconsin is truly a unique experience. We are able to appreciate each season for the beauty it brings along with its challenges.

For those who enjoy winter sports, this winter has not necessarily cooperated. Although it would be nice to get the snowmobile out of the garage, I am also grateful that right next to it are the snow blower and the shovel, neither of which has seen much activity as well.

Even with all of the current challenges, many have taken to traveling to warmer destinations for their recreation. While the decision to travel brings with it many considerations this year, one consideration that should not be overlooked is the security of your home back here in Wisconsin.

While we are very fortunate to live in a community where we do not need to bar our windows or gate our yards for fear of intrusion, we should be aware that crime does occur in Kewaunee County.

We should always be vigilant in regard to securing our homes and being observant of what goes on in our neighborhoods.

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If you are planning on taking a vacation, whether it be for a weekend or the whole season, there are some basic tips to follow.

• Don’t advertise that you will be gone from your home.

I know it is tempting to tell everyone on Facebook about your pending trip or send photos from that gorgeous beach, but be aware that you may not know all who are reading that post. If you are going to the bank or grocery store, again, don’t advertise that you will be gone, just in case someone is listening.

• Some people you should tell are your neighbors, so that they may be extra watchful of your property, as well as law enforcement.

Many people don’t realize you can notify law enforcement that you will be away and request extra patrols during that time. While the officers are always looking for suspicious activity, knowing the home should be vacant may be good information if something is out of place.

• Always make sure you either have someone pick up your mail or have the post office hold it until you return. The same goes for newspaper delivery. Nothing yells "vacant home" louder than a stack of papers on the front porch.
• Also, if you will be gone during the winter months, make arrangements for your driveway and sidewalks to be cleared, again to maintain the appearance that the residence is occupied.
• It is a good idea to let your financial institutions know where you are going and advise them that they may start to see transactions in a different location than where you usually are, or let them know where you will be during your trip.

When you return it also may be worth your time to check your transactions just to make sure that your credit card or its information haven’t been on their own adventure without you.

If you are vacationing this winter season, I hope your travels are safe and you find warmer temperatures.

Matt Joski is Kewaunee County Sheriff.

This article originally appeared on Green Bay Press-Gazette: Going on vacation? Here's some tips to keep your home safe while you're gone