Step 1: Ask a friend or relative to check on your house
If you’ll be away for a long period, ask someone you trust to keep an eye on your house. In case of emergencies, make sure they have:
- a copy of your travel plans
- your contact information
- your car and house keys
- your home insurance information
Step 2: Prevent damage
- Install a power surge protector and unplug all non-essential appliances like your TV, sound system, computer, microwave, toaster and coffee maker.
- Don’t lower the temperature on your water heater to less than 60oC (140oF). This will help prevent legionella bacteria from developing in your tank.
- To avoid potential water damage during the summer months, turn off your air conditioning system or change your thermostat temperature so it doesn’t continue to run constantly in your absence.
- To avoid freezing pipes in the winter, set the heat to a temperature that’s only a few degrees lower than usual.
- In case of an emergency, show the person who’s checking on your home where to shut off the water supply.
Step 3: Deter theft
- Create an updated inventory of household valuables like jewellery and store small items or important documents in a safe deposit box.
- Lock all your doors and windows, including the garage door, shed, and basement windows.
- Make sure that your home security system is on and share the code with the person who’s checking on your home while you’re away.
- Remove your spare key from its hiding spot—burglars know where to look!
- Set timers on both indoor and outdoor lights and leave some blinds or drapes open to discourage intruders.
- Make sure that your newspapers and mail are picked up or put on hold.
- In the summer, arrange to have your yard work done.
- In the winter, have your driveway and walkways cleared of snow.
- Leave a car in the driveway, especially if you normally park there.
- Don’t share your travel plans on social media.
Plus, if you’re insured with The Personal, you can protect your home from anywhere with the AlertTM Program, which features a DIY home security system and monitoring system from Roost®.
For more on this topic, visit:
Prep your home for a long absence
10 ways to protect your home from intruders
Is your home safe while you’re on vacation?
The Personal refers to The Personal General Insurance Inc. in Quebec and The Personal Insurance Company in all other provinces and territories.
The Roost word mark and logo are trademarks of Roost, Inc., and have been registered in the United States and in certain other jurisdictions.
AlertTM is a trademark of Desjardins General Insurance Group Inc., used under licence.
The Alert program is available in Canada only: in Quebec, Ontario, Saskatchewan, Manitoba, Prince Edward Island, Nova Scotia, Nunavut and the Northwest Territories.
Some cities, towns, or municipalities require you to register or to obtain a permit or authorization certificate before you install a home security system. Please ensure you comply with all applicable requirements.
The information and advice in this article are provided for informational purposes only. The Personal shall not be liable for any damages arising from any reliance upon such information or advice. The Personal recommends using caution and consulting an expert for comprehensive, expert advice.