It is the time of the year again when people go to that much-awaited holiday destination away from home, reunite, stay at home or attend endless parties -it is the Christmas holidays.
While most prefer to stay at home to catch up with friends and family members who have not been home for a while, others take the opportunity to go somewhere else, to a place where they have been wanting to go and saved for, to travel for a change.
Unfortunately, not everyone feels the holiday spirit and tend to take advantage of it instead and you get caught in away from home dramas. Do not worry, we have got you covered. If you are one of those who would not be home during the break, here is how you can keep your home safe, courtesy of Independent Traveler.
Ask a Friend to Help
It is really that simple! A good friend or a neighbor can keep things in order for you, feed the pets, water the plants, check the house and ensure nothing goes amiss. Better yet, ask some of your close friends from different location/estate if they are taking a holiday break in your estate! They can stay in your place for free and you have a house-sitter until your return. Problem solved. Just make sure you bring something from your holiday trip other than your tan. Or you can bake cookies ahead, too. It will work just as fine.
Don't Tip Off Criminals on the Web
Yes, we know you are excited to go and cannot contain it but please take it down a notch. You never know who would be reading your posts. Criminals might be as excited as you leaving and not for the same reason.
Do Tip Off the Police
Knowing that the police know you would be away for a week or two will give you peace of mind and help you enjoy your holiday more. They can drop by during their round, not much trouble really. If you have an alarm system set up-do not forget to leave the keys and the code with someone you really trust.
Curtains Closed -- or Open?
This is tricky because you do not want anybody to peer on the window and see your home empty. What do you need to do? Leave them the way you usually do when at home. That way, there is nothing suspicious about it. Just make sure you stash your valuables in a safe place.
The Lights Are on But No One's Home
You cannot leave the lights on the entire time you are away. It is a signal to criminals, especially if your house is the only one blazing in the middle of the night. It's a beacon to them. Purchase a light switch timer that can turn your lights on and off automatically according to a programmed schedule instead, Independent Traveler advises. This way, criminals will be non the wiser.
Stop Your Mail
You cannot have all the newspapers and mails piling up on your doorstep. You can either put a temporary stop on it or ask a friend to collect them for you.
Put That in Your Pipe
It is winter and your pipes may be freezing. You do not want it to burst while away. Ask a friend to check it once in a while and this is another reason to leave a key in case something like this happens. Leave instructions on what to do in case a pipe breaks and make sure someone knows where the water main shut-off is.
Pull the Plug
Unplug as many appliances as you can. Not only you'd be able to save money, (these appliances still consume energy when not in use) you can also avoid the risk of power surges.
Remove Your Spare Key
You might think your hidden place is safe but you could be wrong. Remove the spare key and do not give criminals a reason to spoil your holiday vacation.
There you have it! Now, you can look forward to that much deserved vacation. Enjoy!
