Are you traveling for the holidays? Here are 15 top tips to keep you home safe while you are away:
- Make sure alarm systems and motion sensors are in place and working properly. Connect these to your phone to monitor activity at all times of the day.
- Use automatic lights to scare potential robbers away. Consider placing a camera on your home and linking to your phone to keep an eye on activity.
- Let a neighbor know you are leaving and the amount of time you will be gone. Leave a spare key with your neighbor.
- Keep all trees and bushes trimmed around your home. Overgrown shrubbery can be a good place for burglars to hide.
- Unplug appliances to avoid fires and excess electric use.
- Keep your thermostat as low as possible. This will save you money on electricity.
- Close windows, curtains and blinds so intruders cannot see in.
- Double-check all doors and windows are locked.
- Arrange for mail/newspapers to be temporarily stopped or have a neighbor pick these up for you. Piled up deliveries could signal a vacant home and make your house a target for intruders.
- Make sure holiday decorations are running properly to avoid disasters while away. Check that all plug-in lights and decorations are in proper condition as not to start a fire while you are away.
- Keep a car in the driveway to trick potential intruders into thinking someone is home.
- Avoid broadcasting the vacation via social media. You don’t want to the world to know your home is left unattended.
- Hire a snow removal service or neighbor to keep your driveway and paths clear for when you return.
- Lock away your valuables in a safe.
- Have a safe and happy holiday from your Trusted Choice Independent Insurance Agency – Farmers Union Agency!
Thanks to the Big I of Minnesota for contributing to the content of this Blog. Be sure to connect with your local FUA Agent for your free Homeowners insurance review!