[vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text]Are you planning on traveling this summer? Most New Englanders are!
We work with homeowners on a daily basis and keeping their home safe is our #1 priority (along with building/updating the home of their dreams). Traveling in the summer , or anytime of year, is always a great experience and who doesn’t love a vacation?! However, no one wants to return home to find their house has been broken into. Ensure yourself the peace of mind in knowing that your home is protected while you are away by following these essential tips:
[/vc_column_text][vc_column_text]Share Your Travels Once You Have Returned
The one greatest mistake you can make when you are traveling is blindly posting about your trip on social media. It’s one thing to share a picture of a simple mid-day outing or write a post about a night out, but when it comes to leaving your house for an extended amount of time, you leave your home vulnerable now that you have shared personal information with a crowd of people. Always assume that whatever you decide to post to social media is public even if you have a private account. There’s nothing a criminal loves more than being handed the precious details of when a house is empty. So document your time away, but be sure to share it once you have returned home!
Hire a House Sitter
Another way to gain peace of mind during your time away from home is to hire a house sitter. Whether you would like them to regularly stop by to maintain the house or to simply just drive by each day and check on the place, it’s comforting to have a set of eyes on your home to ensure that everything seems normal.
Stop Your Mail
Another telltale sign to people that you haven’t been home in awhile is the accumulation of newspapers and mail outside your house. As you prepare for your trip, stop into your nearest post office to place a “stop” order on your newspapers and mail. If you don’t get the chance to make a trip to the post office while preparing for your trip this is also where a house sitter could come in handy so they can bring in the mail everyday.
Consider Installing a Light Switch Timer
Don’t leave several of your lights on in the house in an effort to make it look like people are home. The bright lights constantly shining throughout the night can look suspicious and it will also drive up your electric costs. Consider investing in a light switch timer that will allow you to turn your lights on and off automatically according to a programmed schedule.
Pull the Plug on Electronics
Sometimes, your worst enemy isn’t even a person but rather the electronics that are left in your home as you travel. Be sure to unplug your computer, television, kitchen appliances, etc. to protect them from power surges. This will also help you save on energy costs as many appliances draw energy even when they are not turned on.
Wherever your travels take you, keep your home safe so you can enjoy your time away!
Enjoy your summer travels and let us know if we can help us build or remodel your home!
~ The McDonald Contracting Team[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][vc_column][/vc_column][/vc_row]