It’s “Fly South to Escape the Cold Weather” Season. Are you jetting off for a sunny week on the beaches of Mexico, or boarding a ship for an Alaskan Cruise? Before you leave the snow and slush behind, it’s important to take a few precautions to ensure your home is safe, secure, and cared for while you're away. Here is a detailed guide to help you prepare, so you can fully relax on your vacation.
1. Secure Your Home
Your first priority should be ensuring your home is safe while you're gone. A few small steps can provide peace of mind:
Check All Locks: Double-check that all windows and side doors are locked, including basement and garage doors.
Set Light Timers: Creating the illusion of activity can deter thieves. Set indoor and outdoor lights on timers to turn on and off throughout the day.
Inform a Trusted Neighbor: If you have a neighbor or friend nearby, ask them to keep an eye on your property. They can collect flyers or any mail that still finds its way to your doorstep.
Hire a Snow Shoveler: Keep your outdoor sidewalks and driveway clear to prevent any mail carriers or house sitter safe from falling.
Consider a Security System: If you don’t already have one in place, consider investing in a home security system. Many include cameras you can monitor from your phone, letting you check in anytime.
2. Adjust Your Utilities
Save energy while keeping your home safe from winter mishaps:
Thermostat Adjustments: Lower the thermostat to a temperature that keeps energy use down, but still warm enough to prevent pipes from freezing. For most homes, 16°C to 18°C is often sufficient.
Unplug Electronics: Electronics like phone chargers, toasters, and computers can consume energy even when not in use. Power down your computer and unplug any non-essential devices to save on your power bill.
Water Lines: Open the cabinet doors under your sinks to promote airflow to keep your pipes warm. If you are concerned about potential pipe leaks or bursts, you can turn off your main water valve. If you have a friend or family member checking on your home while you are away, it’s a good idea to ask them to walk the basement and make sure there are no leaks happening.
3. Pause Mail and Deliveries
Nothing signals “no one’s home” more than stuffed mailboxes or packages piling up on the porch.
Hold Your Mail: Contact Canada Post to temporarily hold your mail. This is a free service that ensures your mailbox won’t overflow while you're away.
Pause Subscriptions: If you receive regular deliveries, like meal kits or newspapers, pause these services to prevent any buildup.
4. Plan for Pet Care
For those with pets, make arrangements so your furry friends are safe and happy while you’re gone.
Hire a Pet Sitter: A trusted sitter can look after your pets in the comfort of their own home, reducing stress for them.
Use a Boarding Facility: Many boarding facilities provide excellent care, but book early as they often fill up fast during peak travel seasons.
Write Notes: If someone is coming to take care of them, leave clear instructions about food, walks, preferred veterinarians and any medications they may need.
5. Take Care of Your Plants
Don’t forget about your plants—they also need attention, even when you’re not there.
Water Well Before Leaving: Water all your plants right before you depart.
Use a Self-Watering System: Set up self-watering devices, or place potted plants on a tray with water to keep them hydrated.
Ask for Help: If you have a jungle-like collection of plants, asking a friend or neighbor to pop in a few times might be the best option.
6. Share Emergency Contacts
Unexpected situations can arise, even when you are thousands of kilometers away. Prepare for the unexpected by:
Leaving Contact Info: Share your contact information and itinerary with a trusted neighbor, friend, or family member.
Emergency Services: Provide them with details for anyone you rely on, such as your preferred HVAC company, alarm company, or handyman.
7. Perform a Final Checklist
Before walking out the door, take a few minutes for one last run-through.
Tidy Up and Take out your Garbage: Coming home after a trip can have you feeling exhausted from the travelling and overwhelmed with bags to unpack and laundry to do. Getting back from your travels and having your space in tip top shape is a gift to your future self.
Check Smoke and Carbon Monoxide Detectors: Ensure they’re functioning properly. This is especially critical during the winter months when heating systems are running.
Secure Outdoor Furniture: If you have outdoor furniture or decorations, move anything loose inside to protect it from snowfall or windstorms while you are away.
Your Vacation Peace of Mind
Taking care of these tasks in before you go ensures you will return to the same safe, secure home you left behind — no unwelcome surprises! And best of all, it frees you up to focus on what really matters during your vacation: enjoying every moment.
Safe travels!
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