The long-awaited first day of summer has finally arrived, bringing with it the buzz of vacation plans and long, sun-soaked days ahead. While the excitement of a summer getaway fills the air, there’s an important aspect of travel preparations that shouldn’t be overlooked: preparing your home for safety during your absence. Ensuring that your home remains secure and undamaged while you enjoy your vacation can provide an immeasurable sense of peace of mind.
To help you achieve this, we’ve crafted a comprehensive summer safety checklist. This guide will walk you through essential steps to safeguard your home, allowing you to fully immerse in your vacation adventures worry-free.
#1: Secure Your Home’s Perimeter
Before jet-setting to your dream destination, securing your home’s perimeter should be at the top of your vacation preparation list. It’s not just about locking doors but creating a semblance of presence to deter any unwelcome visitors.
- Locks and Alarms: Double-check that all doors and windows are secure. If you have an alarm system, activate it and ensure it’s fully operational before departure.
- Mail and Deliveries: An overflowing mailbox is a clear sign of an empty home. Consider pausing your mail service or ask someone you trust to collect it for you.
- Exterior Lighting: Motion-sensor lights or timers can give the impression that someone is home. Strategically place them around your property to cover the widest area.
#2: Minimize Risks of Damage
Mitigating potential risks within your home can prevent disasters. Inspect key areas to avoid future headaches.
- Plumbing Checks: Inspect your plumbing for any signs of leaks, and consider turning off your water supply to avoid water damage while you are away.
- Electrical Appliances: Unplug non-essential devices to reduce the risk of electrical fires and conserve energy.
- Climate Control: Depending on your region, adjust your thermostat to prevent humidity problems or freezing pipes.
#3: Leverage Smart Home Technology
By equipping your home with smart technology, you’ll have an upper hand in vacation preparation. These tools can provide surveillance and simulate the patterns of daily life.
- Security Cameras: Install outdoor and indoor cameras to monitor your home remotely. Ensure they cover entry points and valuable asset locations.
- Smart Lights: Program your smart lighting to turn on and off, mirroring your usual routine to suggest that someone is home.
- Home Monitoring Systems: Consider investing in a system that offers real-time alerts for incidents like break-ins, smoke detection, or flooding.
#4: Engage Community Support
Creating a safety net with the help of your community can add an extra layer of security. Informing a neighbour can provide oversight in your absence.
- Neighbours: Tell a trusted neighbour about your travel plans. They can report suspicious activity or collect deliveries inadvertently left at your door.
- Community Watch Programs: Get involved with or inform a local community watch program. Members can keep an eye on your property and report any unusual activities to you.
#5: Home Insurance and Documentation
Ensuring that your home insurance is up-to-date before travelling can alleviate the stress of unforeseen events.
- Contact Your Home Insurance Broker: Verify your coverage and discuss any policy adjustments needed for extended travel times.
- Documenting Your Home: Create a visual inventory of your home and valuables. Store this information securely online, where you can easily access it if needed.
#6: Plan for the Unexpected
Hoping for the best but preparing for the worst should guide your vacation preparation strategy. Establish a plan for those who can act on your behalf in your absence.
- Emergency Contacts: Compile a list that includes neighbours, emergency services, and home insurance contacts.
- Keyholders: Designate a trusted person to have a key. This can be invaluable if immediate access to your home is required.
Ready for True Peace of Mind? Contact WMIB Today
Whether you’re jet-setting across the globe or planning a quiet staycation, ensuring your home’s safety should never be a last-minute thought. At WMIB, we understand the importance of comprehensive home insurance tailored not just to your property but to your lifestyle. If you’re in the process of buying a new home or considering updating your current home insurance policy, we’re here to ensure you receive the best coverage possible. Our team of dedicated brokers will work with you to customize a policy that meets your specific needs so you can enjoy your time away without worry.
Contact WMIB today and take the first step towards securing your home and your peace of mind.