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6 Essential Steps to Prepare Your Home Before Travel
Planning a vacation is an exciting time, and it is important not to overlook necessary preparations before embarking on your adventure! Whether you are gone for only a weekend or an extended period, add these 6 steps to your to-do list and enjoy that peace of mind while you’re away!
- Unplug and Secure Appliances: Before leaving, unplug non-essential appliances and electronics to reduce the risk of electrical fires and save energy. Unplugging also prevents damage from power surges. Additionally, consider turning off the main water supply to avoid potential leaks or water damage while you’re away.
- Inform Trusted Individuals: Before embarking on your journey, inform trustworthy individuals about your travel plans. Share your itinerary with a close friend, family member, or neighbor you can rely on. Provide them with your contact details and a spare key if necessary. This way, they can keep an eye on your property, collect mail, and address any emergencies that may arise.
- Install Home Security Doorbells: Investing in a home security system can provide an added layer of protection while you’re away. A doorbell camera can help monitor your home, and upgrading to more security cameras, motion sensor lights, and alarms can help deter intruders.
- Secure Doors and Windows: This may seem like a no-brainer, but before leaving double-check that all doors and windows are properly secured. Install deadbolts on exterior doors and reinforce weak points, such as door frames and hinges. Consider using window locks or even reinforcing them with security film to make them more resistant to break-ins. It wouldn’t hurt to shut blinds or curtains so potential intruders cannot see inside.
- Timers for Lights and Electronics: To create the illusion that someone is home, use timers for lights and electronics, or simply leave a light on while you’re gone. Setting timers to turn on and off at different intervals throughout the day will give the appearance that someone is inside the house, deterring potential burglars. Additionally, consider installing motion sensor lights outside your property to increase visibility and further discourage intruders.
- Suspend Mail and Deliveries: An overflowing mailbox can be a clear indication that nobody is home. Contact your local post office to temporarily suspend mail delivery or arrange for a trusted neighbor to collect your mail and packages. You can have your mail held at the post office until your return.
