Going on Vacation? Prepare your Home

 Regardless of where your vacation destination leads you this summer, you’ll want to make sure your home is well-prepared before you leave. Be sure to add the following tips to your pre-vacation checklist so you can prepare your home before you travel. 

Prevent a Potential Break-In 

Your home could become a target for a burglar if it’s obvious you’re on vacation. Newspapers and mail piling up can let a burglar know that no one is home. Have either a family, friend or neighbor bring in the paper or mail daily for you. Alternatively, you can also put the mail on hold or cancel your paper subscription. 

A dark home is often a target for burglars. Oftentimes, the sound of activity in the home can deter a burglar. Consider putting your lights, radio and television on a timer to make it appear that someone is home.  

If you’ll be traveling during the winter months, consider hiring someone to take care of your driveway and walkways. An unplowed driveway can be a sign that there is no one coming and going into the home. At a minimum, ask a neighbor to drive in and out of your driveway so there are tire tracks in the snow. 

Avoid Frozen Pipes 

While it is reasonable to turn down your thermostat if you’re not going to be home, never turn the heat off completely. If the temperature in your house drops too low, your pipes may freeze and burst, which can cause significant water damage. Keep your thermostat set no lower than 62 degrees. Opening your vanity doors will also allow warm air to reach your pipes. Turning off the water by closing valves at the sink, dishwasher and laundry room are other good precautions to take.