Protect Your Home While on Vacation
Whether you’re visiting loved ones for the holidays or enjoying a respite from winter weather, you’ll want to take steps to secure and protect your home while you’re gone. Consider the following strategies:
- Enhance security. Make upgrades, such as a security system, motion-activated lights, or deadbolt locks.
- Pause deliveries. Put a hold on your mail and other deliveries, as packages piling up can let criminals know of your absence.
- Get a house sitter. Ask a friend or neighbor to stay at your home or at least maintain it, such as by picking up your mail or shoveling sidewalks.
- Be subtle. Refrain from posting on social media or otherwise letting the world at large know you’re traveling.
- Conceal valuables. Don’t leave valuables in areas visible from outside.
Contact us today for more home safety resources.
Addressing Winter Home Fire Threats
According to the U.S. Fire Administration, most home fires occur during the winter months. That’s because various heat sources and appliances in your home may be used more regularly during this time of year, and even slight malfunctions or misuses can ignite a devastating blaze.
Consider the following steps to minimize your risk of winter home fires:
- Get professional inspections: Have your furnace, ventilation systems, fireplace, and chimney checked by a professional.
- Space heater safety: Be mindful of space heater use, including positioning them on stable, level surfaces and keeping them at least 3 feet away from flammable materials.
- Check smoke alarms: Ensure you have functioning smoke alarms on every level of your home.
- Electrical safety: Refrain from overloading electrical outlets with more than one heat-producing appliance.
- Candle caution: Never leave candles burning while unattended.
For more information, contact us today.
This newsletter is intended for informational use only. © 2024 Zywave, Inc. All rights reserved.