When you’re away, the last thing you want to do is worry about what’s going on at home. However, an empty house or apartment can be a tempting target for criminals looking to make some fast cash. Returning from a week at the cottage or a luxury trip abroad to learn something has gone seriously wrong at home can be devastating. But, there are plenty of things you can do to keep your home safe – and they only take minutes to complete. These 7-essential home safety tips will help you to avoid everything from power surges to home invasions while you’re soaking up the sun.
Talk to your neighbours.
An easy way to get some peace of mind while travelling is to ask a neighbour or friend to keep an eye on your house while you’re out of town. If the answer is yes, give them a key so that they can bring in your mail, or water your plants. Be sure to leave this person your contact information while you’re away and your itinerary in case of emergency.
Resist the urge to post online.
Sure, it’s exciting to get away. However, it’s safer if you resist the urge to post your upcoming vacation plans on Facebook and Twitter, or checking in at the airport on Foursquare. While it’s nice to keep your close friends in the loop, it’s important to remember that the information you share could potentially be accessed by hundreds of complete strangers.
Purchase a timer.
Leaving the lights on at home the entire time you’re away can cost a fortune – and isn’t good for the environment either. However, keeping them off throughout your entire vacation can be a telltale sign you’re not at home. Instead, purchase a switch timer that can turn your lights on and off according to a pre-programed schedule.
Pull the plug.
Unplugging appliances while away, such as your television, computer, and toaster oven – can protect them from power surges and save on energy. Many appliances still use power even when they’re turned off, so you need to pull the plug in order to fully stop their energy use.
Close your blinds. Or keep them open.
Keeping your blinds closed can prevent people from peering inside your home. However, it can also stop those who aim to help – like your neighbours – from detecting any unusual happenings at your house. So what’s the better option? It depends. Leave the blinds exactly how you would when you’re home, as noticeable changes could be a clue that you’re not home. However, if you’re keeping the blinds open, be sure to move expensive collectibles, jewelry or electronics out of view.
Stop your mail.
If you can’t get a friend to pick up your mail and newspapers, be sure to put a hold on them. Canada Post makes it easy to avoid an overflowing mailbox – visit their website to put a hold on your business and personal mail. Don’t forget to also contact the office of your local newspaper to request to stop your service for the duration of your vacation. A large pile of mail and newspapers at your door is a big giveaway that no one’s at home.
Remove your spare key.
Plenty of Canadians hide a spare key to their home on their property. If you’re one of those who do, remember to remove it and bring it in the house for safekeeping while you’re away.
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