Many of us will be traveling for the upcoming holidays. With the hustle and bustle of getting ready we sometimes overlook the basics of making sure our home is protected. Whether it is for upcoming holiday travel or for any time of the year, don’t forget these tips to make sure your home is protected while you are away.
Mail and Newspaper Have a trusted neighbor get your mail, packages, and newspaper each day you are gone. If you are going to be gone for an extended vacation, visit the U.S. Postal Service online (https://holdmail.usps.com/holdmail/) and have your mail placed on temporary hold.
In addition to having someone check your mail, have that trusted person check your home. Give them a key so he/she can come and go, giving the effect someone is at home. They can also keep an eye out for issues that may arise when you are away.
Lights Nothing says you are not at home more than a dark home. Put various lights on timers in your home to give the effect you are there. Check out smart bulbs or plugs that you can connect to your lamps to automate them.
Pets Don’t forget about your pets. If you are not taking them with you, then have a trusted sitter check on them every day, or board your pet with your veterinarian or a trusted boarding service.
If you are traveling with your pet, be sure to check out my Traveling with Pets post for things you need to know.
Thermostat Set thermostats to at least 78 degrees in the summer or around 62 degrees in the winter to save energy. No need to keep your house at a comfortable temperature while you are away. Most smart thermostats offer a vacation mode that will allow your home to return to a preferred temperature on the day you return. If you are going to be away during extremely code temperatures ensure your outdoor faucets, pipes, etc. are properly protected.
Limit social media Be careful about posting vacation plans on social media. This allows the public to know when you will be away, thus inviting potential thieves to target your home.
Alert police You can typically notify the police department in many small communities that you will be away on vacation. They will be sure to keep an eye on your home while you are away. Some police departments will even log every time they patrol by your house.
Keep Regular Schedules If you normally have a yard or pool service during the week, keep that schedule. Activity around your home gives the appearance someone is there.
Lock up valuables If you have a safe, use it. Don’t leave valuables out where thieves could easily get to it or fire could destroy. If you don’t have a safe, consider investing in a fireproof safe.
Don’t leave hidden keys Don’t leave keys hidden under the doormat, flower pot or under a fake rock. This will be one of the first places thieves will look. Give the key to a trusted neighbor who can look in on your house while you are on vacation.
Got the tips down but don’t have a vacation planned yet? Contact me, and let me help you plan the ultimate vacation. You’ll love where I take you.