Have you ever gone on vacation, and while you’re lying on the beach sipping a margarita or singing campfire songs in the Rockies, realized you forgot to close the garage? Or lock the sliding patio door? Or turn off the lights?
If your answer is “YES,” you may want to keep reading.
The chaos of planning, booking, and packing for a vacation can leave you forgetting important steps before you leave, like securing your home. By following this checklist before you travel, you may be able to avoid returning home to a disaster.
- Hold mail and newspaper deliveries: A tell-tale sign that homeowners are gone for an extended period is an overflowing mailbox or a pile of newspapers on your doorstep. Don’t give burglars the upper hand.
- Install a camera or security system: Doorbell cameras and home security systems are great ways to secure your home and deter would-be thieves.
- Inform a trusted neighbor: If you decide not to use a security system, telling a trusted neighbor when your home will be empty is a great way to keep an eye on things in case of suspicious activity or severe weather.
- Use timers for lights: Set up timers or smart plugs to turn on and off lights at different times throughout the day. This gives the illusion that someone is home, deterring potential intruders.
- Secure valuables: Store important documents, jewelry, and valuable items in a locked safe or an off-site safety deposit box.
- Lock the garage: If you have a garage, make sure it's properly secured, as it can provide easy access to your home.
- Keep curtains and blinds normal: While you may be tempted to close all curtains and blinds to prevent people from seeing inside, completely closed window coverings during the day can signal an empty home. Leave them in their usual positions.
- Don’t leave spare keys outside: Avoid leaving spare keys under doormats, flowerpots, or fake rocks outside. Instead, give a spare key to a trusted neighbor or friend.
- Avoid sharing vacation plans on social media: Refrain from posting about your vacation plans or sharing real-time updates on social media. Publicly announcing your absence can attract potential burglars.
- Disconnect electronic devices: Unplug non-essential electrical devices to protect them from power surges and to conserve energy.
By following these tips, you can reduce the risk of burglary and ensure a more peaceful vacation knowing that your home is well-protected.
This information and any attachments or links are provided solely as an insurance risk management tool. They are derived from information believed to be accurate. Utica Mutual Insurance Company and the other member insurance companies of the Utica National Insurance Group (“Utica National”) are not providing legal advice or any other professional services. Utica National shall have no liability to any person or entity with respect to any loss or damages alleged to have been caused, directly or indirectly, by the use of the information provided. You are encouraged to consult an attorney or other professional for advice on these issues.
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