Home Tips

Vacation Checklist

A vacation is your time to relax and enjoy life Make sure that while you are enjoying your vacation, your home is protected. Please take a moment to review this helpful vacation checklist before you pack your bags.

• Make sure all electrical appliances are turned off.
• Lock all windows and doors.
• Call and have the newspaper and mail held until your returned or have them picked up by a trusted neighbour.
• Arrange to have your lawn mowed (or snow shoveled) while you're away. Ask a neighbour to set your trash on collection day and then retrieve empty cans and recycling bins the same day.
• Let a trusted neighbour know you will be away and have them keep an eye on your home for you. It's a good idea to leave your vacation address and telephone number with a neighbour so you can be reached in case of emergency.
• Never leave you house key hidden outside your home.
• Set timers on interior lights.
• Make sure to unplug televisions, computers and appliances that are susceptible to lighting and power surges.
• Advise your alarm company and local police if you will be gone for an extended vacation.
• Store jewelry and valuable papers in safe deposit box.
• Set the heating system to provide minimum heat of 60 degrees.