Top 10 Things to Check If You're Going on Vacation

We've reached that point of Summer where families are trying to squeeze in vacations during the last few weeks before school starts, and people are trying to soak up as much sun as they can "before it's too late". You've got your hotel booked and bathing suit packed -- but have you prepared your home for vacation as well?   

Keeping Your Home Safe While You’re Away
When preparing to leave for a vacation, it’s easy to overlook basic safety precautions. There are a number of hazards that could affect your home while you’re away, including lightning, theft and flooding. The last thing you want is to reach your hotel and wonder..."Did I turn that off?" In order to keep your property safe while you’re on vacation, consider the following:

1. Unplug small appliances and electronic devices.
2. Stop the newspaper and mail. To do this online, visit the U.S. Postal Service’s website.
3. Lock all windows and doors.
4. Arrange to have your lawn mowed or snow shoveled while you’re away.
5. Have a neighbor keep an eye on your home throughout your trip.
6. Remove any house keys you keep outside your home, even if you think they’re in a safe place.
7. Set timers on inside lights. Install a motion-activated sensor on outdoor floodlights.
8. Consider turning off your home’s water.
9. Raise the temperature on your thermostat or turn the system off completely. This ensures that you aren’t paying to cool your home while you’re away.
10. Avoid posting photos of your trip on social media until after you return home.

Insurance Considerations
Taking the proper precautions before you go on vacation can make all the difference when it comes to preventing damage to your home. However, accidents can still occur, and it’s important to ensure you have adequate insurance coverage. Contact our team to discuss your unique needs.

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• Rental Car Insurance Tips
• Is Travel Insurance Right for You?
• Looking to Rent Your Home our for Vacations/Home Sharing? Here are the Risks to Consider
• Summer Boating Safety Tips

This is for informational purposes only and is not intended as professional advice.