Vacations are meant to be worry-free. Whether you’re heading to a relative’s house for Thanksgiving dinner or taking a longer holiday trip, the last thing you want is to come home to a disaster. Taking a few precautions before you leave can help protect your home from theft and damage while you’re away.

Here’s a checklist to help you prepare your home before your Thanksgiving vacation:

• Turn off electrical appliances – Unplug small appliances like toasters, coffee makers, and other devices. This saves energy and reduces the risk of electrical fires.
• Clean out the refrigerator – Remove perishable items that may expire while you’re away. A clean fridge prevents unpleasant odors and potential messes.
• Secure all windows and doors – Double-check that every window and door is locked before you leave. Never hide spare keys outside your home, as burglars know all the common hiding spots.
• Hold your mail and newspapers – A pile of mail or newspapers signals that nobody is home. Contact the post office to hold your mail or ask a trusted neighbor to collect it.
• Arrange for lawn maintenance – If you’ll be gone for an extended period, have someone maintain your yard so it doesn’t look neglected.
• Notify a trusted neighbor – Let a reliable neighbor know you’ll be away. They can keep an eye on your property and alert you to any suspicious activity.
• Set interior light timers – Use timers on indoor lights to create the appearance that someone is home. This is one of the simplest and most effective deterrents against burglary.
• Unplug electronics vulnerable to power surges – Protect your valuable electronics like TVs, computers, and gaming systems by unplugging them or using surge protectors.
• Alert your alarm company – If you have a home security system, notify your alarm company that you’ll be away and ensure your system is activated.
• Notify local police – Many local police departments offer vacation watch programs. Let them know you’ll be away so they can periodically check on your property.
• Secure valuables in a safe-deposit box – Important documents, jewelry, and other irreplaceable items should be stored securely while you’re away.
• Arrange for pet care – Make sure your pets are taken care of, whether by a pet sitter, boarding facility, or trusted friend.
• Set your thermostat – Set your heating to a minimum of 55 degrees Fahrenheit to prevent pipes from freezing. This is especially important during the cold November weather.

By following this checklist, you can enjoy your Thanksgiving vacation with peace of mind, knowing your home is safe and secure.

The All Access Insurance team wishes you and your family a meaningful and happy Thanksgiving. We are grateful for you. Keeping you protected is what we do best.

Contact All Access Insurance for a free home insurance quote today!