#USA #Los Angeles #Mercury Insurance #Home Safety #vacation tips

Vacation-Proof Your Home Before You Leave

As summer approaches, many homeowners are gearing up to take much-needed vacations. However, new research indicates that nearly two-thirds of summer travelers recognize that they could improve their home protection while away. Mercury Insurance is here to help with ten actionable steps to ensure your home remains secure and protected from any summer surprises.

1. Secure All Entry Points

Before embarking on your trip, take the time to lock every door and window. This includes not only the front and rear doors but also garage doors, side gates, and all accessible windows—including those on upper floors. Don’t forget to secure sliding glass doors and any detached structures like sheds.

2. Create the Illusion of Occupancy

A vacant house is a tempting target for burglars. Utilize timers or smart home automation to give the appearance that someone is home by controlling your lights and other devices remotely. Alternating light schedules can significantly enhance this effect.

3. Halt Mail and Package Deliveries

Overflowing mail, newspapers, and delivered packages are signals that no one is home. To avoid this, either put a temporary hold on deliveries or enlist the help of a reliable neighbor to collect your mail while you relax on holiday.

4. Consider Shutting Off the Main Water Supply

Water damage can escalate quickly if a leak goes unnoticed. If it's feasible, shutting off your home’s main water supply before an extended getaway could prevent a minor leak from turning into a significant repair job.

5. Adjust Your Thermostat

Maintaining a safe indoor climate is essential, even when you’re not home. Set your thermostat to ensure that your home stays at a comfortable temperature while minimizing energy consumption. Smart thermostats also allow you to monitor and adjust settings remotely if the weather changes unexpectedly.

6. Test Your Safety Devices

Before you leave, check that smoke alarms, carbon monoxide detectors, and any smart security devices are in working order. Replace old batteries and ensure your monitoring systems are functional to safeguard your home.

7. Ask a Neighbor to Check In

Having someone you trust to check on your home can be invaluable. Friends, family, or neighbors can spot potential issues like storm damage or signs of forced entry before they turn into bigger problems.

8. Delay Social Media Updates

It might be tempting to share your vacation photos in real time, but this could inadvertently reveal that your home is vacant. Consider holding off on social media posts until you return home to keep your property secure.

9. Maintain Your Yard

A tidy yard can reinforce the illusion that someone is home. Before leaving, mow the lawn, trim hedges, and put away any outdoor equipment to enhance the overall appearance of the property.

10. Review Your Homeowners Insurance

Before you leave, take a few moments to review your homeowners insurance policy. Ensure you understand your coverage, verify your contact information, and know how to reach your insurance company should anything go wrong while you’re away.

Final Thoughts

A vacation should be filled with joy and relaxation, not stress over potential home damage or theft. By following these ten straightforward steps, you can enjoy peace of mind while away from home. Mercury Insurance is dedicated to helping you protect your home throughout the year; visit our Resource Center for more tips and insurance information. Enjoy your travels while knowing your home is secure!