Have you recently booked your next vacation? In the process of planning your next multi-day road trip? While relaxation might be top of mind, it’s important to have a plan in place to protect your home while you travel. In fact, one of the biggest worries facing travellers is the safety of their home while away.
Even though you might be uncomfortable leaving your home unattended while travelling, following these tips will help you enjoy a worry-free vacation.
Do not post your departure date on social media
In the excitement leading up to your vacation, it might be tempting to share details of your travel plans online. However, doing so lets potential thieves know when your home will be vacant. Protect your possessions and keep your travel plans offline. Get in the habit of sharing details about your vacation once you return home.
Tip: before departing, double check that your home address isn’t made public on your social accounts. This includes your phone number, as a quick Google search can link a phone number to your address, revealing personal information to those seeking it.
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Lock your doors, windows and set your alarm
While this may seem like a no-brainer, it’s not uncommon for an excited traveller to forget to completely lock up their home before jetting off to their destination. If would-be thieves are successful at gaining entry, having your security system activated should scare them off and alert the authorities in no time. Posting the stickers that came with your home protection device at all obvious and accessible entrance points, such as your front and back door, will make burglars think twice about targeting your home.
Tip: keep your valuables out of sight. Remember to shut your curtains or blinds and keep items such as your flat screen TV and gaming system out of view.
Leave your spare keys with a friend
Many of us have an extra set of keys hidden somewhere on our property in case we lose or forget our usual set. While this may seem like a good idea for your day to day life, it’s best to leave that spare set in the hands of a trusted friend or neighbor while you’re travelling. Not only will it eliminate an easy entrance for a burglar, it will also allow your friend or neighbor to check up on your home while you’re away.
Tip: During colder months, having a friend check your faucets and outdoor water lines, such as your hose, can protect against frozen pipes.
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Make it look like someone is home
Once you’ve decided who you’ll leave to look after your key while you’re away, ask them to make longer visits when checking in on your home. Ask your friend to bring in the mail, mow your lawn, and park their car in the driveway. Doing so will give onlookers the impression that someone is still home.
Protect your home with CAA Insurance
Your home is more than just a roof over your head. Whether you are away for the day or jet setting to Europe, CAA Insurance can help protect it with affordable coverage that suits your unique needs. Plus, CAA Members automatically save 10% on home insurance.
To learn more and get a no-obligation quote, visit caaniagara.ca/insurance, call 1-877-379-9222 or visit your nearest CAA Niagara Branch.
Auto and Property insurance are underwritten by CAA Insurance Company. To qualify for the discount you must be a current CAA Member in good standing (CAA Membership dues paid in full by membership expiry date). Eligible CAA Members may qualify to receive a Member Loyalty Discount based on membership tenure and Roadside assistance usage.
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