 |
Going over the river and through the woods for the holidays? Let's make all your memories be positive with these 7 quick tips to keep you safe.
Don't put out the "we're not home" sign -- set up timers on lights and a radio or television so that your home appears and may sound lived in.
- Tell trusted friends and neighbors know how long you will be away and ways to get in touch with you in an emergency. Ask them to help keep an observant eye on your home. Ask them to collect your mail and newspapers, or you can suspend delivery until you return.
- Perhaps your neighbor could park their cars in your driveway periodically. In snowy climates, ask them to shovel your walk and driveway. The last suggestion is really a big one, so I would offer them a bonus for that extra work.
- Detach home address and phone numbers from your luggage tags and include only your cell-phone number, in case an unscrupulous baggage handler gets any shady ideas.
- Lock up and hide your valuables. Keep some shades partially closed to keep expensive items (such as your big-screen TV) out of view. (But don't completely close all window coverings, or it will be obvious that no one is home.)
- Set the thermostat to an energy-saving level. Unplug most appliances to save electricity.
- Remove all perishable items from your refrigerator, and take out the trash so you don't return to unpleasant odors.
- It may seem obvious, but don't forget to lock all doors and windows. If you leave a vehicle in the driveway, be sure to remove any garage door openers.
Last year, I published this blog. I had a family member who was away in college have her sorority house broken into, unfortunately, her mom didn't send her my newsletter. These tips would have been really helpful to her. If you have any kiddos away at college, please forward this article to them. They're probably just as excited to come home and may not be thinking about how to keep their home away from home safe.
Happy Holidays!
No comments:
Post a Comment