It's always fun to think about your vacation, but here are ways to help ensure all goes well at home while you're away.
1. Prepare the exterior
You want the outside to look like there are regular comings and goings.
Put one exterior light on a timer...even better if you have a motion detector on a light too.
If you can, park any cars that are normally in the driveway or on the street in the garage.
Stop the newspaper and mail! You can conveniently do this on USPS.gov and have it delivered to your mailbox after you get home.
Have someone mow your lawn if you'll be gone during a rain time in your area.
2. Prepare your Utilities
These are easy to forget to be sure to make a to-do list of these
and check them off as you do them!
Set the thermostat closer to the temps outside so you can save on your gas/electric bill.
Notify a neighbor that you'll be gone so they can keep an eye out for suspicious activity.
Notify your credit card company that you'll be out of town so they won't put a hold on your card.
Turn your hot water heater off or put it on vacation mode!
3. Prepare your Appliances
Forgetting these can make you wish you never came home from your trip!
Freeze a clear water bottle on its side a week prior to leaving and stand it up in the fridge when you leave. If the water looks "normal" upon your return then you know the power went out, and you'll need to replace the food in your refrigerator.
Unplug small appliances and turn off water valves!
Dispose of any food that will go bad before your last trash day before your trip, and takeout all trash before you leave.
Be sure to run your garbage disposal with water and a cleanser such as vinegar to get rid of any lingering food that may be sitting in there.
Email me HERE and let me know what you always do to prepare your home for a trip!
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