How Can I Protect My Home During Spring Break?
Once spring break is close, many of us start looking ahead to vacations in warmer places. While it might be warm where you’re vacationing, it often still feels like winter at home during the early spring months, and the colder temperatures can take a toll on your house while you’re away. Here are a few things to consider before leaving on vacation:
- Check your thermostat. It’s often recommended to keep your home in at least the mid 50s while you’re gone.
- Make sure pipes are properly insulated before you leave, especially if they are against an exterior wall.
- Have a friend or relative periodically check in on your home to make sure everything is okay.
- Drain your pipes of water by turning off the main water valve and letting all the faucets run until the water has cleared the pipes.
- Pipes in cabinets can freeze more easily. Keeping the cabinet doors open lets the warmer air in, which can help prevent freezing.
Regardless of the weather, it’s always a good idea to take some basic steps to protect your home before you leave on any vacation. This may include:
- Keeping your home well lit with exterior lights and keeping interior lights on timers.
- Having your mail held at the post office.
- Placing your valuable items in a safe and secure place.
- Making sure all the windows and doors are locked.
For additional tips on how to protect your home and identity from burglars, check out our blog article here.
Sources:
Insurance Information Institute
Insurance Institute for Business & Home Safety