By: Edward L. Blais, JD, CIC
School vacation is fast approaching, and we know you’re
eager to get away with your family for some much needed quality time. As you pack your suitcases and tend to
all of your last minute travel plans, don’t forget to take care of the most
important task on your to-do list: protecting
your home while you’re away.
At Blais Insurance, we take the safety and security of your
home and family very seriously, and strive to prepare and protect you for
whatever happens. Therefore, we
have provided you with tips and more for you to follow before taking some much
needed time off this season.
1.
Make it
appear that your home is still occupied.
Before going away, many homeowners wonder if they should leave their
blinds open or closed. The answer:
keep them in the same position as you normally do when you are home. You should
also consider installing motion sensor lights outside your home so that they
turn on as soon as someone gets too close. Leave a few lights on inside while you’re away to avoid a
dead giveaway that the home is vacant.
2.
Ask a
friend or neighbor to check on your home while you’re away. Having someone monitor your residence
on a regular basis may help avoid making your home a target for crime. Ask them to hold your mail, check to
see if there is any evidence of a break-in around your home, and contact the
police immediately if they suspect anything out of the ordinary.
3.
Avoid
posting a status about your vacation plans. Criminals actively search for
these types of updates to see which homes will be easy to access. Instead, wait to post pictures of your
trip until after you return home.
4.
Unplug
all unnecessary appliances. Protect
your home from an electrical fire or power surge by unplugging anything that
will not be in use during your vacation. This includes your TV, toaster, coffee
maker, and other small appliances.
Vacation is meant to be a time of relaxation. Before
spending time away from home this season, be sure to take the necessary precautions,
including insuring your valued possessions. While making your vacation plans, be sure to call Blais
Insurance at 725-0070 to make certain that your time away will be spent worry-free.
