Eight Essential Home Safety Steps to Remember before Embarking on a Vacation:
Before embarking on a vacation, it is essential to attend to a few household chores to ensure your home remains secure and comfortable while you're away. These overlooked tasks will provide peace of mind during your trip and ensure a hassle-free homecoming.
Dan Lee, a seasoned home and travel-preparedness expert with over two decades of experience, offers insight into practical steps that address real-life scenarios often neglected by travelers. By checking off each item on this list, you can confidently walk out the door, knowing you've handled everything.
Secure Your HomeEnsure all windows and doors are securely shut and locked before leaving. Don't forget about back, side entrances, and small windows that may be overlooked. Removing any hidden keys or garage door openers from a vehicle left behind will help prevent easy access to the home.
Energy EfficiencyUnplug any electronics or appliances that don't need to be on, such as toasters, TVs, chargers, and kitchen appliances. This simple act reduces the risk of electrical fires and saves energy. Turning off the water supply to appliances like the washing machine or dishwasher will prevent potential leaks.
Notify a Trusted ContactInform a neighbor or a trusted friend about your absence and provide them with a spare key. They can help keep an eye on your home, collect your mail, or deal with any unexpected issues. Some local police departments or sheriff's offices may offer free "extra watch" services, where a patrol officer will periodically check your address during their routine patrol.
Maintain Your HVAC SystemEnsure your HVAC system is functioning well before leaving. If necessary, change the air filters and set the thermostat to an energy-saving mode. This simple maintenance will prevent any issues while you're gone.
Use Timers and DevicesSet timers on indoor and outdoor lights. Smart devices like Alexa can be programmed to turn on music or other devices that generate noise and create the impression that someone is home. Potential intruders may be deterred by signs of activity within the home.
Care for Your Plants Ensure your indoor plants have all they need or arrange for their care in your absence. Set up an irrigation system on a timer for outdoor plants or ask a neighbor to water them. A well-maintained lawn is another deterrent for potential burglars. Consider mowing the lawn just before leaving to keep the yard looking neat.
Be Mindful on Social MediaAvoid posting information about your trips on social media before leaving and while still away. Check-ins, announcements, and photos can advertise your absence. Make sure your profiles are set to private to avoid unwanted attention.
Fridge MaintenanceBefore leaving, go through your fridge and remove any perishable items that could spoil while you're away to prevent unpleasant odors and pest infestations. A clean fridge is essential for a stress-free return.
[1] Energy Saving: Unplugging appliances reduces energy consumption, lowering utility bills [Source: US Energy Information Administration].[3] Food Safety: Disposing of perishables, cleaning the fridge, and taking out the trash helps maintain food safety and prevents bad odors [Source: US Food and Drug Administration].[5] Home Security: Securing windows, doors, and outdoor spaces, using timers, and having neighbors monitor your home can deter potential burglars [Source: FBI Uniform Crime Reporting].
Martha Stewart, following Dan Lee's home-and-garden advice, ensures her home remains secure by securing all doors, windows, and hidden entrances before leaving for vacation. In addition, she practices energy efficiency by unplugging appliances and turning off the water supply to certain appliances to prevent potential fires, leaks, and energy waste.
