Safeguarding Your Home During Winter Vacation

Dreaming of a winter getaway? Popular options during the chilly months include soaking up the sun on a beach, exploring new sights, trying your luck at a casino, or hitting the slopes. Whichever you choose, it's crucial to prepare your home before you leave to ensure peace of mind.

It's essential to plan for your home's safety just as meticulously as you do for your vacation. Taking preventive steps can help avoid major issues such as burst pipes, power surges, or burglaries.

Here are five essential tips to keep your home secure while you enjoy your winter vacation.

1. Enlist friends or neighbors to help

Avoid the obvious signs that you're not home, like a stuffed mailbox or a doorstep filled with packages. Consider placing a temporary hold on your mail and newspaper deliveries. Alternatively, give a trusted friend or neighbor a key so they can check in regularly and keep things orderly.

While they're at it, have them inspect your pipes and plumbing. This is especially important if you live in a colder region. Show them where the water main shut-off is located in case of a break. If they notice any issues, like water flow stopping, it's likely that the pipes have frozen. Provide them with instructions to quickly contact a plumber or your property management company, along with necessary contact details.

2. Make sure your pipes are protected

In areas prone to freezing temperatures, ensuring that your pipes are well-insulated is vital. Proper insulation can prevent pipes from freezing. If you live in a community with property management, they should handle common area pipes.

To prevent frozen pipes while you're away, turn off the main water valve and ensure taps are drained. Additionally, maintain some heat in your home. Though it might be tempting to cut heating costs, a bit of warmth can prevent costly pipe damage.

3. Pull the plugs

Electrical storms can lead to power surges, which might fry your home appliances or spark a fire. Before you head out, unplug electronics like TVs, computers, kitchen gadgets, and more. This also saves energy, as many devices consume power even when not in use.

4. Let the right people know

While it's wise not to broadcast your absence, informing key individuals can enhance security. Notify your local police department of your travel plans so they can monitor for suspicious activity. If your residence includes security staff or a guardhouse, alert them as well. Exercise caution in choosing whom you tell.

5. Don't share future plans on social media

Eager to share details about your exciting vacation destination or itinerary online? Hold off. Broadcasting your plans on platforms like Facebook, Twitter, or Instagram can inadvertently inform strangers of your absence. Even with privacy settings, information can be spread through friends, making your home's vacancy known. The same caution applies to sharing vacation photos while you're still away. Save those beautiful shots for when you return.

While you savor your vacation filled with sunshine or snow, adventures or relaxation, remember to follow these protective measures. Returning to a secure and sound home will help prolong that post-vacation bliss.