The holiday season is quickly approaching and many of us are looking forward to spending time with loved ones and going out of town. However, before you embark on your festive adventures, it’s essential to take the necessary precautions to secure your home. In this blog, we will provide you with a checklist of steps to follow to ensure that your property remains safe and sound while you’re away.
Checklist for Securing Your Home
Notify Trusted Neighbors
One of the first steps to take is informing any trusted neighbors about your travel plans. Having a good relationship with your neighbors can be invaluable for many reasons including keeping an eye on your home while you’re out of town. They can report any suspicious activity to the authorities and help create a presence, deterring potential intruders.
Pause Mail and Package Deliveries
A pile of uncollected mail and packages can be a telltale sign of nobody being home. Contact your local post office to hold your mail or have a trusted neighbor pick it up for you. If your home frequently receives packages, consider pausing deliveries in your absence. This will prevent an accumulation of packages from sitting on your doorstep, which can entice thieves.
Set Up Timers for Lights
Creating the illusion that someone is home can be a smart strategy to deter burglars. Set timers for your lights to turn on and off at different times throughout the day and evening. This will make your home look like it’s occupied even while you’re away.
Secure Windows and Doors
Before leaving, it’s vital to double-check that all doors and windows are securely locked. Investing in deadbolts and window locks adds an extra layer of security and peace of mind. Also, ensure that no spare keys are hidden outside your house, as these can be easy targets for burglars.
Consider a Home Security System
If you don’t already have one, installing a home security system is one of the most effective ways to prevent break-ins or theft. Modern systems allow for remote monitoring, allowing you to keep an eye on your property through a smartphone from anywhere in the world. Many systems even include features like video doorbells and motion-activated cameras.
Comprehensive Protection Through Insurance
Lastly, it’s important to discuss the essential insurance coverage you need to protect your home and assets during the holidays. Standard homeowners or renters insurance typically covers theft and damage to your property. Still, it’s a good idea to review your policy and ensure it’s up to date.
If you have valuable assets, consider adding a “floater” to your homeowners policy. Valuables like jewelry, collectibles, and art are often overlooked when it comes to insurance coverage. At COBIA, we offer specialized valuable asset coverage to add further protection for valuables that may not be covered under typical insurance policies.
Enjoy a Safe Holiday Season With COBIA
Adequately securing your home before heading off for the holidays is essential for your peace of mind. Taking the precautionary steps mentioned in this blog will minimize the risk of theft or break-ins. Furthermore, our dedicated team at COBIA is here to help protect your home and valuables. We strive to be more than just a standard insurance provider, we want to foster meaningful relationships with clients and protect them with specialized insurance coverage that fit their needs. Please contact us today to learn how we can safeguard your home and assets.
