Going on vacation is exciting and relaxing because it allows you to escape the stresses of everyday life. You also have time to spend with your family and bond with them. It is critical to ensure that your home is secure while you are away so that you do not return to a disaster. By doing a few simple things before you leave, you can keep your home safe and secure.
1. Lock Every Entryway
This may seem obvious, but you’d be surprised at how vulnerable some of your entryways are. Check all of your doors and windows, including those upstairs, to make it much more difficult for someone to gain access to your home.
Going from door to door and window to window, make sure they all have the proper locking mechanisms. Don’t forget to inspect any points of entry into the basement. If you are unsure whether your home is sufficiently secure, you can hire a professional to inspect it and, if necessary, install additional security measures.
2. Install Security Cameras
Over the last few years, home security cameras have become much more affordable and simple to install and use. Burglars are deterred by security cameras because most do not want to be caught on camera committing a crime.
If they break into your home, you will have evidence to show the police so that they can conduct an investigation. You can also use this evidence to show your insurance company in order for them to pay for any damages or stolen items.
3. Turn Off the Water Mains
One thing that many people do not consider before going on vacation is the possibility of water damage while they are away. Water can be extremely damaging, and returning home to a flooded house can be devastating. Aside from the flooding, water can cause other problems down the road, such as the growth of mold and mildew.
Locate and close the main water supply valve to protect your home while you are away. You should also install a water leak detector that will turn it off automatically if any flooding occurs.
If this occurs, contact a disaster cleanup company that specializes in water damage. It is far better to deal with water damage as soon as possible because simply removing the water and leaving things as they are will cost you much more in the long run.
4. Do Your Landscaping
Checking someone’s landscape is one of the simplest ways to tell if they’ve been gone for a while. If the landscaping has not been completed in a few days or weeks, it is possible that no one has been home for an extended period of time. This could lead to a break-in attempt. Large hedges, bushes, and trees are also excellent hiding places for burglars waiting to strike when no one is home.
Nobody wants to return from a vacation to a burglarized or damaged home. Fortunately, you can protect your home by performing a few simple tasks that should not take long. Also, let your neighbors know you’ll be gone so they can keep an eye on your house.