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<\/p>\nWhile most like to think they are spontaneous people who can\u00a0leave for a trip on a whim, it\u2019s not always that practical. Especially for extended trips, which are typically a stay of 7 days or more. While away, your house or apartment is vacant, leaving it exposed to potential burglars, the elements, and that rowdy pack of raccoons that have been terrorizing the neighborhood. None of these fears should prevent you from embarking on the trip of a lifetime. But a little effort goes a long way when it comes to vacation prep. And you\u2019ll enjoy your trip more knowing that you\u2019ll return to your home just how you left it.<\/p>\n
Read on to learn what you should do before you leave on your next adventure!<\/p>\n
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The majority of home burglaries are performed by someone who lives within 2 miles of the target home<\/a>. Because they live nearby, they may notice that you are on vacation if you leave evidence of your absence. Here are a few things to do to keep unwanted guests away:<\/p>\n Lock all your doors and windows.<\/strong> This may seem obvious, but it’s\u00a0easy and common for burglars to enter through an unlocked door or window. Double check all of them before you leave the house. If you have a garage, lock the entrance to the garage as well – since a compromised garage door code or opener could allow easy entry as well. Also don\u2019t hide your house key outside! Under a doormat or a flower pot might seem harmless, but are easy places for thieves to look.<\/p>\n Ask a neighbor to keep an eye on the house.<\/strong> A trusted neighbor can be the best ally you have when embarking on an extended trip. Ask them to pick up any mail, newspaper, or packages from your porch and mailbox. If they\u2019re close enough, ask if they\u2019ll park their car in your driveway to make it appear as though you have company or are home.<\/p>\n Use lights to your advantage.<\/strong> \u00a0Programmable light switches are your friends. Program a couple of lamps near windows to come on each night. Motion activated floodlights are also useful tools – especially if you live in a poorly-lit area.<\/p>\n Consider a home security system.<\/strong> Security companies are the first to tell you that homes without security systems are more likely to be burglarized. Some security systems will notify the police if your home is broken into and the code is not entered properly upon entry. Having security cameras installed may also buy you some peace of mind while you\u2019re away so you can check in regularly.<\/p>\n Hide your valuables.<\/strong>\u00a0 Stow your valuables in an unlikely place like your children’s toy chest for example. Hide anything you would hate to lose – especially jewelry, cash, electronics, and weapons. Leave a note for yourself if you need, to remind you where you hid them.<\/p>\n There\u2019s more to prepping your home than preventing burglaries. Other disasters can occur which can be extremely frustrating. Here\u2019s what to do to get your home ready:<\/p>\n Clean out the refrigerator.<\/strong> There is nothing grosser than returning to a home that smells like rotten food. Before you leave, clean out all food with an expiration date – especially produce, meat, and milk. Give it to a friend or to that neighbor you asked to help you out. It\u2019s also nice to return to a clean refrigerator and makes that first grocery shopping experience much more enjoyable.<\/p>\n Set your thermostat.<\/strong> An extended trip might seem like a great time to save money on your electric bill, but leaving your house too warm or too cold can cause serious damage. Frozen pipes in the winter and mold and mildew prevention in the summer can be prevented by moderating the temperature. Also, ask your friendly neighbor to check inside your house occasionally to make sure a leaky pipe or anything else did not occur.<\/p>\n Unplug your electronics.<\/strong> Electrical storms can decimate your expensive electronics. Unplug anything that has a plug – unless of course, it\u2019s the lamps you have hooked up to your programmable light switches.<\/p>\n Turn your water off.<\/strong> This may not be possible all of the time – especially if your home has a sprinkler system. But in many cases, it’s a good idea. Water damage is very common and can be extremely costly if it is not taken care of right away. Turning off your hot water heater is also a good idea. If that isn\u2019t possible, turn it to the lowest setting possible.<\/p>\n Take out the trash.<\/strong> Empty all trash cans in every part of the house. Ideally, your neighbor will help you dispose of it on trash day. But if not, keeping the smell out of your house is vital. It will also keep insects and other creatures at bay. Run a lemon or some vinegar through the garbage disposal too, to keep it fresh.<\/p>\n When it comes to taking care of your pets while you\u2019re away there are a few options: take them with you, leave them with someone or a boarding center. Here are some tips for helping\u00a0your furry friends thrive while you\u2019re away.<\/p>\n Ask a friend with pets to keep them while you’re away.<\/strong> Asking a friend who has pets of their own may be the best option since they are familiar with their schedules and don\u2019t mind an extra pet running around.<\/p>\nInside the Home<\/h1>\n
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<\/p>\nPets and Plants<\/h1>\n
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