Home Safety Checklist While Away

A business trip or vacation is far better enjoyed when you have peace of mind. The following home safety checklist helps to ensure that you have taken all precautions to keeping the safety of your property and belongings while you’re away. 

1. Hire a House Sitter. 

VIP Sitters patrols your home's exterior and interior, examining for environmental damage or potential security compromises, and maintains your home's security by preserving a lived-in appearance. Read more about the VIP Treatment. 

2. Install a Home Security System

Some home security systems are complex and must be installed by a professional, but some are simple and sold in kit form. They use a loud noise to note intrusion, effectively scaring off any trespassers. 

3. Disconnect all Electronics

Not only will this save you money, but it also eliminates the worry of any electrical fire. Remove the GPS from your car if leaving it at the airport. It tells thieves you’re out of town and gives them a convenient rout to your home. Turning off the garage door prevents thieves from opening it with a universal remote. Turn off the main water supply and the water heater to prevent any flooding and water damage. 

4. Clean out the Refrigerator

Have some friend’s over to eat everything in the fridge so to prevent anything from spoiling. Remember to take out the trash so you don’t come home to a stink.

5. Don’t broadcast it

Don’t announce your trip on your answering machine, social media, or your personal blog. Show caution when talking about your trip, and make sure your children do the same as well. 

6. Lock the Doors & Windows

Don’t make it easy for burglars, remember to lock up every possible lock to relieve any temptation. 

7. Leave your Home Looking Lived In 

Leave your car in the driveway and your blinds left open. A self-timer that turns on the interior and exterior lights in the evening is very effective. For exterior lighting, LED flood lights are extremely energy efficient. Also, ask a neighbour to cut your grass and take out your garbage.

8. Have a Neighbour Keep an Eye Out

Ask a neighbour that you trust to watch out for any unpredictable deliveries or suspicious behaviour around your home.

9. Stop Newspaper Delivery

Stop your newspaper service before you leave town. A pile of newspapers on the doorstep may make your home a target. 

10. Hold your mail

You can place a hold on your mail for up to 30 days by calling the post office or submitting a stop mail request online. 

11. Make a list of Credit Cards

In case you lose your wallet, make a list of all your credit card numbers and their phone numbers. Keep this somewhere safe, somewhere other than your wallet. 

12. Make a list of Emergency Contacts

Exchange numbers with all of your emergency contacts in case you need to get in touch with each other. 

VIP Sitters does all of this and more to provide you with peace of mind while you’re out of town. Feel free to learn more about VIP Sitters and the services offered. Or, go ahead and obtain a quote! 

Please note our price match programme. If you receive a quote that is lower than ours, we invite you to email/call us in order for us to price match* or offer you additional discount on the reduced rate.