Vacationing is a time to relax, but don’t forget to prepare your home before you leave. A vacant home may face risks like burglary or water damage if left unprotected. By taking the right steps, you can keep your property safe and secure. The peace of mind this brings lets you fully enjoy your travels. Follow these practical tips to prepare your home before your trip.
Lock All Doors and Windows Tight
It might feel obvious, but a basement window or side door can be easily forgotten when you’re rushing to leave. Be sure to double-check all entry points, including garage and pet doors. A security bar or rod in sliding glass doors can add an extra layer of safety. Locking up should be the first task in your vacation prep checklist. This small effort ensures your peace of mind while you’re away.
Install Smart Home Features
Keep your home secure during your absence with the help of smart home devices. With smart locks, video doorbells, and security cameras, you can monitor your property remotely and deter burglars. Real-time alerts and live video feeds give you added peace of mind. Program your smart lights to turn on and off at different times to mimic regular activity. Combining these features ensures a safe and secure environment for your home.
Get A Comprehensive Home Security System
A professionally installed home security system is one of the best defenses against burglaries. Visible cameras, alarm signs, and stickers are effective at deterring potential intruders. Modern security systems often include 24/7 monitoring, emergency responses, and smart home integrations. Remember to arm your security system before leaving to keep your home protected. This additional step ensures that your home is safe even while you’re away.
Keep Your Absence Under Wraps
Keep your vacation plans private by avoiding social media posts while you’re away. Sharing updates can alert burglars that your home is unoccupied. Save your vacation photos for when you return. Additionally, be sure to collect your mail and packages so they don’t pile up and signal your absence.
Halt Your Mail and Deliveries
A mailbox full of uncollected mail and packages piling up can be an obvious sign of an empty house. To avoid this, have the post office hold your mail during your vacation. Use a secure parcel box or reschedule deliveries to keep your packages safe. Alternatively, ask a neighbor you trust to collect your mail and packages.
Add Personal Touches To Make Your Home Look Lived-In
To make your home less appealing to burglars, simulate an occupied house. Set timers to control lights, radios, or TVs to replicate daily activity. Avoid fully closing your curtains or blinds, as this can look unusual and suspicious. If possible, ask a trusted neighbor to park their car in your driveway occasionally to maintain the illusion.
Inform A Neighbor Or Friend Who You Trust
Let a trusted neighbor, friend, or family member know about your trip and ask them to keep an eye on your property. They can monitor for unusual activity, collect your mail, and take care of your plants. Ensure you provide them with a key and emergency contact details in case they need to access your home or contact you.
Keep Priceless Items Secure
Protect your valuable items such as jewelry, electronics, and important documents by keeping them in a home safe or safety deposit box. Keep these items out of sight, especially from windows, to avoid attracting burglars. Ensure your safe is fireproof and bolted securely to the floor or wall for added protection against theft.
Disconnect Power Lines
Unplug non-essential electronics such as toasters, TVs, and computers to reduce fire risks and prevent damage from power surges. Make sure critical systems like refrigerators remain plugged in and are functioning properly.
Shift The Thermostat Setting
Conserve energy while safeguarding your home by adjusting your thermostat to a reasonable temperature. In winter, keep the heat on to prevent frozen pipes. In summer, maintain a moderate temperature to avoid overworking your HVAC system.
Stop The Water Line
To protect your home from water damage due to leaks or burst pipes, turn off the main water supply before leaving. If turning off the main supply isn’t an option, you can shut off water to specific appliances like washing machines or dishwashers. A water leak detector is also a good investment to help catch potential problems early.
Protect Your Outdoor Property
Ensure your yard and exterior areas are secure by storing outdoor furniture, tools, and equipment in a safe location to prevent theft. Trim overgrown bushes and trees that could offer cover for burglars. Lock gates and fences, and consider installing motion-activated lights for additional security.
Review Your Insurance Agreements
Before you leave, review your homeowner’s insurance policy to make sure you’re covered for theft, fire, and natural disasters. Keep a list of emergency contacts, including your insurance provider, so you have them available in case of an issue while you’re away.
Carry Out a Final Check of the Property
Before leaving, do a final walkthrough of your home to ensure everything is secure. Check that all doors and windows are locked, lights are set on timers, and appliances are turned off. Create a checklist to ensure nothing is forgotten.
Proper preparation before your vacation can eliminate stress and ensure your home is secure. These tips will help minimize risks and let you focus on enjoying your trip. Taking time now to prepare can save you from future issues. Stay safe and enjoy your travels!