Summer Vacation is around the Corner – Ready, Set, Go!!
Vacations are the best, we live for them here on The Boehm Team, whether it be a Team Retreat, a get away with the husband or some fun in the sun with the family, we love to vacation! But being on vacation also means making sure you home is prepared for you to be gone. Here are some tips to keep your home safe while you are gone.
- Stop your mail and newspaper – Nothing says “I’m not at home” more then a week’s worth of papers in the driveway or a stack of mail in your box. Be sure and contact your delivery person to let them know that you need to stop delivery while you are gone. If your mailbox doesn’t have a lock on it, then go the post office and put a hold on your mail. Another option is to have a trusted neighbor collect your mail, deliveries and newspapers.
- Park the car in the garage – Your car will be safe from burglary, theft and vandalism. Don’t have a garage, then ask a family member or friend if you can park at their house while you are gone.
- Put your house lights on a timer. Have at least one light come on every evening while you are gone. Also think about having a motion sensor activated light installed near the front door.
- Mow your lawn – I know who wants to do that before they leave, but it will keep your home from looking vacant. If you are going to be gone for a long time, have it mowed by a service or friend.
- Unplug all your small appliances and electronics. Not only will this save you a little money on your energy bill, but if there is a storm, you will save your electronics from being blown out. Make sure your smoke alarms are working.
- Turn your thermostat down to conserve energy, but not so low that it will cause damage to plants, pets or furniture.
- Put your water heater on vacation mode. Traditional water heaters work all day long even if you are not using water. If your water heater does not have the VAC setting, then lower the temperature. Turn off the water valves to the dishwasher, washing machine and sinks, this will help if a pipe broke while you are gone.
- Clean out the fridgwe and throw away in the outside trash. Take out the trash and recycling to keep the smells down in the home while you are gone.
- Leave your emergency contact information with family and a trusted neighbor. Neighbors are important because they are near your home, drive past it and can report if they see anything suspicious.
- HAVE FUN!
Summer Vacation Home Safety
