Whether you are planning to leave on a long road trip or you’re simply popping by to visit a family member for a few days, leaving your home while on vacation can leave it vulnerable. Give yourself peace of mind before your next visit out of town by ensuring that you take the proper steps to protect your home while on vacation.
Deal With the Snail Mail
An overstuffed mailbox is a telltale sign that someone is away and not tending to their home consistently. This is an invitation for thieves who wish to riffle through your mail or your home for items of interest. Contact your post office to have them hold your mail for a time or ask a kind friend or neighbor to collect it for you.
Prepare for a Home Emergency
The last thing you want is to come home to a disaster, such as a burst pipe, flood or fire.. Be sure to give your keys to a trusted friend or neighbor who is able to check-in. If you live in an area at risk of forest fires, consider packing an ‘essentials’ box with your most cherished and important items. If your area is on standby for an evacuation, the friend can ensure your items are picked up before the neighborhood homes are no longer safely accessible.
Consider Timers
Place your heating and cooling systems on a timer so that your home can run at an eco-friendly mode while you are away, but alters the temperature to keep the home welcoming upon your arrival. Use timers or smart fixtures to turn lights on and off at specific times to make it appear that your home is occupied.
A little extra planning before a trip can go a long way to ensure that your home isn’t a ripe target for thieves and is cared for in the event of an emergency.
