The holiday season is filled with excitement, whether you’re visiting loved ones or taking a much-needed vacation. However, leaving your home unattended during this time can leave it vulnerable to security threats and pest infestations. With some thoughtful preparation, you can ensure your property remains safe, secure, and well-maintained while you’re away. Follow these detailed tips to protect your home and enjoy a worry-free holiday season.
Enhance Home Security Measures
Taking steps to secure your home can prevent unwanted incidents while you’re away.
- Install a Home Security System: Homes equipped with security systems are far less likely to be targeted by burglars. Modern systems often include cameras, motion sensors, and 24/7 monitoring, offering peace of mind. These features can deter intruders and ensure immediate alerts to authorities in case of a break-in.
- Notify Local Law Enforcement: Informing your local police department about your travel plans adds another layer of security. Many police departments offer vacation watch services, where officers periodically check on your property. This simple step can make a big difference.
- Use Timers for Lights: Mimicking your daily routines with timers for indoor and outdoor lights can make it appear that someone is home. Smart lighting systems can even allow you to control lights remotely from your phone.
- Secure All Entry Points: It might sound simple, but ensuring every door, window, and garage entry is properly locked is crucial. Enhance security with smart locks, window sensors, and even surveillance doorbell cameras to monitor any activity around your home.
- Be Cautious with Social Media: Avoid sharing details about your travel plans online. Posting your itinerary or photos while you’re away can signal to potential intruders that your home is unoccupied. Save those vacation updates for after you return.
Prevent Pest Infestations
Keeping your home pest-free while you’re away is equally important. Unwanted guests, such as rodents and insects, can quickly create problems in an unoccupied home.
- Inspect and Store Decorations Properly: Holiday decorations stored improperly can become a haven for pests. Inspect items like wreaths and garlands for signs of insects or rodents before bringing them indoors. Use sealed plastic containers to store decorations instead of cardboard boxes, which pests can easily infiltrate.
- Seal Entry Points: Carefully examine your home’s exterior for any cracks, gaps, or openings that could let pests in. Common areas to inspect include around windows, doors, and utility openings. A simple sealant can go a long way in keeping pests out.
- Maintain Cleanliness: Before leaving, ensure all food is securely stored in airtight containers, and promptly dispose of trash. Even small crumbs or spills can attract pests, so take a few extra minutes to clean your kitchen thoroughly.
- Control Moisture Levels: Many pests are drawn to moisture. Check for any plumbing leaks and consider using a dehumidifier in particularly damp areas, like basements or laundry rooms. Reducing humidity can make your home less appealing to these unwelcome guests.
Additional Precautions
To fully protect your home while you’re traveling, take these extra steps:
- Arrange for Mail Collection: Nothing screams “empty house” like a pile of uncollected mail or packages on the porch. Pause mail delivery through USPS or ask a neighbor to pick up your mail and packages while you’re away.
- Maintain Your Property: A well-maintained yard can help give the impression that someone is home. Arrange for lawn care or basic landscaping maintenance if you’ll be away for an extended period.
- Unplug Non-Essential Electronics: This small step not only reduces energy consumption but also minimizes the risk of electrical fires. Unplugging items like TVs, gaming consoles, and small appliances is a smart precaution.
By taking these steps, you can leave your home with peace of mind, knowing it’s secure and protected. Whether you’re embarking on a weekend getaway or a long holiday vacation, careful preparation ensures your property will be in the same condition as when you left it. The holidays are meant to be enjoyed, and a little proactive planning can help you do just that. Safe travels!
