Spending a few days out of town to celebrate with Uncle Billy and the family? A long drive, gifts to buy, desserts to make – there’s so much to think about before you leave! Let us help you achieve peace of mind with a few simple tips to secure your home for the Holidays.
Movement and action while you’re away
Before you leave, we suggest you inform a neighbor or someone you trust who lives close by. By having visitors in your home, your house won’t look completely deserted. Create a sense of movement by getting someone to pick up your mail and clear snow from your porch or driveway. Secure your home by making it harder for thieves: they prefer to have plenty of time with little risk of getting caught.
Exterior lighting
Having a timer to activate your outdoor lighting is another way to give the impression that there’s life in your home. Protecting your home with an alarm system is an obvious way to ensure peace of mind. We recommend that you display a sticker stating that your house has such a system to discourage thieves.
Trash and recycling
Getting someone to put your garbage and recycling to the curb will also generate movement while you’re away. By making it look like you’re at home doing your daily chores, you’re helping to secure your home throughout the Holidays. It would be unfortunate to come home and find that your beloved possessions are gone.
Discretion is advised
When you’re away from home for a long time, there are a few things you can do to prevent unpleasant surprises. Hide your valuables, such as jewelry, in a safe place. Your extra keys should be properly stored where only people “in the know” can access them. Don’t put them in your mailbox or under the mat. Find a place that can’t be seen from the street and put the key in a small box with a code. Simple and effective!
To secure your home during the Holidays, it’s best not to share your plans on social networks. Be discreet about where you’re going and for how long. This is not the best time to activate your phone’s geolocation and share vacation snapshots. Save that for when you come back!
Up-to-date home insurance
Make sure your home insurance policy is up-to-date. It’s also a good idea to keep a list of your valuables, with photos. This will make things easier if you have to make a claim.
Secure your home during the Holidays, leave worry-free and return with sweet memories of your time away
Finally, focus on what you can do to come back to a comfy, welcoming and undisturbed home. Before you leave, don’t forget to:
- Check your smoke detectors
- Unplug your electronic devices to avoid fire hazards
- Save energy by unplugging chargers and small appliances.
- Install window locking mechanisms and/or remove cranks
- Empty your garbage cans
- Set your thermostats at a lower temperature
- Shut off the water supply to the house, water heater and washing machine.
Securing your home during the Holidays will help you return to a comforting place, with sweet memories of laughter and joy as you begin the New Year. We wish you a very happy Holiday season!
