Traveling for the holidays? Do this to protect your home, safety officials say
Preparing for holiday travel can be stressful, and it’s easy to get caught up in packing bags and presents and planning travel while neglecting to think about the home you’re leaving behind for a few days.
An empty home can face risks like burst pipes, electrical issues or break-ins, especially when temperatures dip.
Texas state insurance officials say a few simple steps up front can prevent a lot of stress later and help avoid problems with coverage. From keeping the thermostat running to making sure your place still looks lived in, preparation goes a long way.
Here’s what to know before heading out for the holidays this December.
What should I do inside my home before leaving?
Before you walk out the door, it helps to make sure the inside of your home is ready for a few quiet days.
The Texas Office of Public Insurance Counsel says to keep your thermostat at least 55 degrees during cold weather, so your pipes don’t freeze or burst. Some insurance policies may not cover damage if your home wasn’t heated.
Fire safety is another easy step to overlook. The Texas Department of Insurance recommends unplugging things that don’t need to stay on, which lowers the chance of a fire and helps cut your energy bill.
It also helps to take out the trash so you don’t come home to smells or pests.
Should I talk to my insurance company before traveling?
Extended trips can affect what your homeowners’ policy covers. Some policies have rules about how long a home can sit empty before certain protections change.
It’s a good idea to look over your policy or call your agent before you leave, especially if you’ll be gone for a few weeks. They can explain what’s covered, what isn’t, and whether they expect you to take any extra precautions.
How can I make my home look lived in while I’m gone?
A home that looks lived in is less likely to draw attention. Start with the basics, like locking every door and window. It sounds simple, but it’s easy to miss one when you’re in a rush.
Letting a neighbor know you’ll be gone can also help. They don’t have to watch your home closely, but they can keep an eye out for anything that feels off.
Mail and packages piling up is another giveaway that no one is home. Officer Bradley Perez with the Fort Worth Police Department said travelers should make a plan for that before leaving.
“Have a trusted friend or neighbor pick up any newspapers, mail, or advertisements left on your front door,” he said.
Perez also recommends using light timers, so parts of your home still look active in the evenings, which can help it appear occupied while you’re gone.
He also warned against sharing your travel plans online.
“Never post on social media that you are away from home,” he said. “Wait until you return from travel to make any posts.”
What else can help protect my home while I’m away?
A home security system can give you peace of mind, especially if it lets you check on your house through an app.
For physical safety, sliding glass doors can be reinforced with a wooden pole or dowel in the track, which makes them harder to force open.
Be sure to keep valuables out of sight limits temptation for anyone passing by your windows.
Perez said a quick walkthrough before you leave can go a long way.
“Check that all your ground level windows are locked along with doors, especially if you had recent company that know you may be leaving soon.”
