Vacation is a time to relax, right? Well, it's one thing to worry about how you look in your bathing suit (note: always better than you think...unless you're wearing a Speedo). It's another to worry about the security of your apartment while you're gone.

The summer months and holidays are popular with criminals too. To help deter crime, we recommend the following prevention techniques:

• Alert neighbors. And the apartment complex security guard, if you have one. Let them know when you'll be gone. Ask them to keep an eye on your place. They'll be more apt to notice if something's amiss.
• If it's going to be a long vacation (one that's sure to make all your friends jealous), you should also mention to the front office or landlord.
• If you have a security alarm, be sure to activate it. Make sure you lock (and check) all your windows and doors.
• If you have sliding doors, place a metal rod or piece of plywood in the track to prevent an intruder from forcing the door of the apartment open.
• Look at your apartment from the outside. Make sure no valuables are visible. If you can see them, so can criminals.
• Ask a friend or neighbor to get your mail. You might consider putting a temporary stop or hold on your newspaper delivery.
• Place timers on lamps and televisions, so they come on while you're out. It'll create the illusion that someone's home.
• Of course, don't leave a message on your answering machine saying you're on vacation. Criminals don't usually call before they come by, but better safe than sorry, eh?