By: Mich Lagdameo
The summer months are the best time to kick back and relax, preferably somewhere sandy and sunny! A trip someplace new is just what the family needs to de-stress and bond over new experiences. However, before you can embark on a vacation to remember, don’t forget to secure your home and property so you can truly enjoy your time away. Problems on the home front are the last thing you want to return to!
Turn off all appliances and water sources
If you are leaving the home completely empty, consider shutting off the main power switch and water. This can help prevent any fires caused by power surges or leakages brought about by burst pipes.
Don’t post vacation details online
Unfortunately, criminal elements are getting savvier and savvier with their M.O.s, even resorting to stalking you online. Try to be vague about your vacation details if you must post about them publicly, so that no one knows how long you will be gone and how vulnerable your home will be. Also, review safety protocols with your kasambahay—criminal gangs often target househelp when the family is away.
Transfer your valuables somewhere else
Just to be on the safe side, relocate your cashbox and jewelry boxes to another safe spot, especially if you have househelp aware of where you stash these in the first place. If you’re iffy about leaving your home to just your kasambahay for a long period of time, consider having them take a leave at the same time, so you’re not worried about their activities in your home while you’re away.
Leave a car in the garage
This shows that someone is home and might deter any robbers from casing your home and making you a target. Or, consider leaving an outdoor light on the whole time.
Have a trusted neighbor or relative drive past or check in every so often
If you’re going to be gone for an extended period of time, have someone you trust check your home once every few days just to make sure nothing is amiss. Remind them to check the back of the house, the garden, and the garage and to let you know if anything suspicious comes up.
Tell security you are not expecting any deliveries or repairs.
If you live in a village or condo, it’s good sense to advise your security detail that you will be away for a period of time. This way, they can screen any people coming in and out claiming that you are expecting them even in your absence.
Keeping your home safe can be a challenge especially in these times, but that’s no reason for you not to enjoy your vacation! A little preparation and a lot of foresight is all you need to keep your house safe and sound.
Mich Lagdameo is a mom to a precocious 1-year-old. She is a writer and editor by trade and calling, and she lives for books, leisurely grocery trips, cups of good coffee, long drives with her husband, and the Food Network. Her days are punctuated by the sound of her computer keys and her daughter banging into things.
