Protecting Your Home While You're On Vacation

Vacation is a chance to relax and leave your cares behind. By following these tips, you can spend more time enjoying vacation instead of worrying about what’s going on at home. 

Tip #1:  Make Sure You Lock Everything Up. 

According to the Department of Justice, the majority of home break-ins occur during July and August; the popular vacation months. Make sure everything inside and outside of your home is locked up tight before you leave. Believe or not, 30 percent of burglars enter homes through unlocked doors and windows. Before leaving, check through your visible windows to see if you can spot any expensive items, such as jewelry and electronics, and move them out of the way if possible (or impair the vision of them in some way).

Tip #2:  Light It Up!

Put a few indoor lights on timers to create the illusion that someone is home. Set your outdoor lights on timers so your home and yard is well lit at night. Be sure to arrange with a neighbor or friend to collect your mail and newspapers, or you can contact the post office or delivery service to suspend delivery until you return home. 

Tip #3:  Don’t Advertise That You’re Gone

Don’t advertise the fact that you are leaving town by changing your voicemail messages or posting all of your plans on various social media sites, such as Twitter or Facebook. What you should do is let a trusted neighbor or friend check in on your house periodically if you plan on being away for more than a few days. Your mind will be at ease knowing that your home is secure and safe.

Tip #4:  Protect Your Home Against the Weather

Seasonal storms can threaten your home while you are away. Even minor flooding can cost you thousands of dollars. Before leaving, check around your house and inspect all of your gutters and downspouts. Make sure they are all clear of debris and drain water properly. Check your garage doors and make sure everything is intact, especially the weather-stripping.  You should also consider bringing in or securing any outdoor furniture that could be tossed in high winds.     

Tip #5:  Safeguard Your Infrastructure

Before leaving your home, make sure all nonessential electronics and appliances are unplugged or just shut off the power strips in which they are plugged into. In the event of a power surge, you don’t want to take any chances with causing a fire in your home. Additionally, you may want to turnoff or unplug other nonessential appliances (e.g., washing machine, dishwasher, etc.); This is also a great way to save energy while on vacation. 

Not only should you protect your home while on vacation, but you should also protect your funds as you travel.  Be sure to take along your debit card, credit card, and/or Visa Travel Money to ensure you have the funds you need, when you need them. 

How DuGood Can Help

Rest, relaxation, adventure.  No matter who you are, taking time to get away from it all feels pretty great.  Here’s how DuGood can help:

• Need extra cash? If you’re planning an anniversary or “once in a lifetime” trip, a home equity loan can be a great option.  Be sure to check out our latest promotion – so you can get $250 cash back!
• Stay connected on the go!  Our DuGood app and CardValet are great for keeping track of your money no matter where you are.  Both are free and are available for Apple and Android devices.