Are you planning a getaway? Before you jet off on your well-deserved vacation, it’s crucial to take steps to ensure the safety and security of your home while you’re away. From preventing burglaries to minimizing fire hazards, here are some essential home safety tips to follow:
- Request a mail hold: Contact your postal service to request a mail hold for the time you are gone. This prevents mail and packages from piling up in your mailbox, which can signal, to potential burglars, that your home is vacant.
- Inform a trusted neighbor: Let a trusted neighbor know that you’ll be away and ask them to keep an eye on your property. They can alert you to any suspicious activity and collect any unexpected packages that may arrive in your absence.
- Ensure security systems are functional: Check that your security cameras, doorbell camera, and other security systems have fully charged batteries and are in working order. These devices serve as an extra layer of protection for your home while you’re away.
- Use timers for lights: Set timers for lights to turn on and off throughout the day and night. This creates the illusion that someone is home, deterring potential burglars from targeting your property.
- Unplug non-essential appliances: Reduce the risk of fire hazards and save energy by unplugging non-essential appliances and charging cords before you leave. This includes items like TVs, computers, chargers, and small kitchen appliances.
- Secure valuables: Safeguard sensitive documents, jewelry, and other valuable items by storing them in a safe deposit box or a hidden, secure location within your home. This adds an extra layer of protection in the event of a break-in.
- Avoid sharing vacation plans on social media: While it may be tempting to share your vacation plans and photos on social media, resist the urge to do so until after you return home. Broadcasting your absence online can make your home a target for burglars.
By following these home safety tips, you can have peace of mind knowing that your property is secure while you’re away. With proper planning and precautionary measures, you can ensure a worry-free vacation and return home to find everything just as you left it. Safe travels!