Summer is here! Whether you are looking forward to be big vacation overseas or local trips around your state, many of us look forward to our summer vacations. Keeping your home safe while you are gone can be simple and it can also offer you peace of mind while you are off enjoying your trip. We share some things to do before you leave for your vacation.

Actions that can decrease your risk for theft while you are gone:

Don’t share your trip plans on social media: we understand that posting on social media in the moment is ideal. However, by posting content while you are on vacation tells many on the internet you are currently away from your home for an extended period which can increase your risk for theft.

Holding your mail: unless you have someone checking your mailbox for you every day, it is best to hold your mail through USPS. Letting your mail collect in your mailbox while you are gone increases your risk for mail theft. You can easily do this online by going to usps.com and setting a mail hold.

Stage your home: Staging your home to look like you are home may lower your risk for a burglary. Here are a few suggestions on how to do this:

1. Set a light on a timer. Whether it is a lamp or your main room, this shows like someone is home.
2. Don’t leave garbage or recycle bins out for multiple days in a row. This can be a clear indication you are not home to thieves. If you can, ask a neighbor if he or she can pull your bins off the road or place them back where they belong on your property.

Inform your neighbors: If you’re close with your neighbors, be sure to let them now that you’re going to be away on vacation. They can keep an eye out for suspicious activity at your home.

Invest in a home security camera. This can bring peace of mind knowing any strange activity on your property can be alerted to you via your home security app.

One simple action to prevent a home insurance claim: If you plan to be gone for weeks at a time, it is always best to shut off your water.

Home insurance claims are best avoided by taking simple precautions. If you have questions about your home insurance, please feel free to reach out to our staff. We’re happy to help.