Safeguarding your home while on vacation

5 pm. You shut down your computer and breathe a sigh of relief. Finally your vacation week has arrived! Whether you’re headed off to a tropical island in the middle of nowhere or you’re heading down the shore, don’t forget to protect your home while you’re gone.

First, you want to make sure that everything is in place with your homeowners insurance. Make sure you are current on your payments.

Talk with a neighbor or close friend about keeping an eye on your place while you’re away. You don’t want your mail or newspapers to pile up. That is a sure-fire way for thieves to target your home. Also, give this person an emergency number to contact you.

Lock all windows and unplug small electronics. Definitely, check your sump pump in case it rains while you’re away.

If you’re going to be away for a couple months, you may want to consider turning off the water. You don’t want to come home to plumbing issues.

Lastly, don’t leave a message on your voicemail saying that you are away. This will also encourage thieves to target your home.

Enjoy your vacation!