Wherever you decide to go for vacation, there are often dozens of things to worry about prior to your trip. Here are some tips to keep in mind before you leave to make sure your home is safe while you’re gone.
Home Security
If you have a home security system, make sure it is set properly, and that lights inside the house will turn on and off with a timer. Notify the newspaper and mail carrier to hold deliveries until you return, or have a neighbor pick these up each day so they don’t accumulate.
Safety Steps
Make sure smoke detectors and fire alarms are in working order. Even though you won’t be home, these might alert neighbors that there is a problem inside your home.
Unplug appliances while gone. If there is an electrical surge or lightening weather, reducing the number of plugged in items could help prevent an electrical fire.
Take extra time to shut off the water at major appliances and the bathroom fixtures. And, set the water heater to a vacation setting or a lower temperature to save energy.
To prevent pests and vermin from entering your home or garage, make sure all trash is taken away before you leave. Lock screened areas, windows or other locations that might give accessibility to stray animals.
Severe Weather Preparation
Summer storms can creep up unexpectedly. Protect your outdoor furniture, grills, and equipment by securing them inside a shed or garage while you’re on vacation.
If you live in an area that typically has high water or flash floods during summer thunderstorms, then consider installing a water detection alarm inside your home.
We hope you have a great vacation, but if a disaster does affect your home while away, remember to call for professional help to get your home back to live-in condition.