Prevent disasters at home while you are away. Here is a quick checklist of things you should do while you are away. Print out a few copies and file away or copy to a computer file to print out before a trip.
General Security
A few easy safety tips:
- Tell a trusted neighbor of your plans and give contact info.
- Tell local police of your schedule; give itinerary, contact info.
- Install and set timers on lights.
- Lock all windows, especially those on the ground floor.
- Put entry door lights on photocell timer.
- Arrange for mail and newspapers to be held or collected by neighbor.
- Leave a dog bowl at the front step, giving strangers the idea that a dog lives in the home.
- If leaving the country, give a copy of your passport to someone you can contact in case of theft.
- Contact your credit card company, tell them of your destination so they do not suspect fraudulent charges and close down your account leaving you without cash/purchase power.
Plumbing
Easy but important step to prevent a major flooding disaster in your absence, especially important in winter months as unused pipes can freeze and burst.
- Shut off main water supply to the home.
- If water is needed for outside in your absence (maybe neighbor is watering gardens etc), shut off water inside at each plumbing fixture.
- For each toilet – Turn the valve below the tank to the right several turns until closed. Do not over tighten.
- For showers, sinks and tubs – same rule applies, find access panel and turn the valve until closed. These valves are often harder to access but leaks there are less likely than a toilet.
- At a minimum, be sure all sink and tubs are off before leaving your home.
Electricity
Prevent any electrical damage to expensive appliances and electronics.
- Unplug computers, TVs and video equipment. Power surges from bad storms can destroy devices.
- Unplug toasters, irons, hair curlers etc. Even though you turned appliances off, it is better to unplug and be sure an electrical current cannot create a fire hazard in these heat generating appliances.
- Be sure exterior lights are on or on timers to keep up the appearance of someone at the home.
