Spring break is upon us and it is time for a holiday! If you are like most families, you put a lot of planning into your vacation but don’t neglect prepping your home for your absence. It is so important to prevent disasters at home while you are away. Nothing ruins a memorable family trip more than coming home to flood or worse, a break-in. Here is a quick checklist of things you should do before you get out of Dodge. Print out a copy and use as a checklist before your next trip.
General Security
• A few easy safety tips:
• Tell a trusted neighbor of your plans and give contact info.
• Tell local police of your schedule; give emergency contact info.
• Install and set timers on a few interior lights.
• Lock all windows, especially those on the ground floor.
• Put entry door lights on photocell timer.
• Arrange for mail and newspapers to be held or collected by neighbor.
• Leave a dog bowl at the front step, giving strangers the idea that a dog lives in the home.
• Be sure exterior lights are on or on timers to keep up the appearance of someone at the home.
• If leaving the country, give a copy of your passport to someone you can contact in case of theft.
• Contact your credit card company, tell them of your destination so they do not suspect fraudulent charges and close down your account leaving you without cash/purchase power.
Plumbing
Easy but important step to prevent a major flooding disaster in your absence, especially important in winter months as unused pipes can freeze and burst.
• Shut off main water supply to the home.
• If water is needed for outside in your absence (maybe neighbor is watering gardens etc), shut off water inside at each plumbing fixture.
• If not shutting off water main- For each toilet – Turn the valve below the tank to the right several turns until closed. Do not over tighten.
• If not shutting off water main -For showers, sinks and tubs – same rule applies, find access panel and turn the valve until closed. These valves are often harder to access but leaks there are less likely than a toilet.
• At a minimum, be sure all sink and tubs are off before leaving your home.
Electricity
Prevent any electrical damage to expensive appliances and electronics.
• Unplug computers, TVs and video equipment. Power surges from bad storms can destroy devices.
• Unplug toasters, irons, hair curlers etc. Even though you turned appliances off, it is better to unplug and be sure an electrical current cannot create a fire hazard in these heat generating appliances.
This article was brought to you by Beth Allen from, Hip Chicks-The DIY Resource for Women
We Are Supported By:
