Going on vacation can be exciting and relaxing, but it can also leave your property vulnerable. Regardless of where you are in the world, it’s essential to ensure your home and valuables remain secure. The risks of criminal activity and household accidents may be heightened while you are away and can lead to considerable financial losses.
Securing the Exterior of Your Property
Protecting your home begins from the outside. As criminals search for potential targets, homeowners can take many precautions to dissuade them and secure their property. Consider the following steps:
- Maintain landscaping. Arrange to have your lawn mowed and your trees and bushes trimmed. Unkempt property may attract criminals.
- Pause deliveries. Contact mail, newspaper and other delivery services to pause distribution to your home or ask a family member, friend or neighbor to collect them for you.
- Imply presence. Utilize strategies to convince potential burglars that someone is home, such as outdoor lighting or a car parked in the driveway.
- Bolster security. Ensure your garage and any other structures on your property are locked and collect any spare keys you may have hidden outside.
Precautions to Take Inside Your Home
Take precautions to protect the inside of your home, which could be broken into by burglars or damaged by an accident. Fortunately, there are many steps homeowners can take to reduce damages or losses stemming from these potential situations, such as the following: 
- Use light timers. Exterior lighting can help deter criminals, but automatic timers on indoor lights can be even more effective.
- Check the locks. Ensure locks for all doors and windows are fastened and in good condition.
- Secure valuables. Never leave expensive possessions in plain sight for passersby to see. Consider using a safe deposit box for particularly valuable or sentimental items.
- Prevent electrical accidents. Power surges can damage your valuables or even cause a fire. Disconnect computers, televisions and other electronics while you’re on vacation.
- Consider climate conditions. Set your heating and air conditioning systems to keep your residence at suitable temperatures and ensure pipes—especially in exposed areas like attics and basements—are properly insulated.
Beyond physical preparations, it’s also a good idea to avoid publicizing that you are on vacation via social media or word of mouth. In addition, if you have an alarm company or security system, let them know you will be away from home.
Protect Your Home Properly
As you prepare to take a trip or enjoy an adventure, your preparations should include packing and arranging your itinerary—and ensuring the security of your property.
Beyond the aforementioned precautions, there are other steps to consider, including adequate insurance coverage. The insurance experts at Select Insurance LLC are well-versed in helping people in the Anderson area acquire proper coverage for their homes and valuables. Contact us today to receive a quote or to learn more about home insurance.
This blog is intended for informational and educational use only. It is not exhaustive and should not be construed as legal advice. Please contact your insurance professional for further information.