A Final Checklist Before Leaving on Vacation
Going on a vacation is a welcome escape from the everyday life. It rejuvenates the body, mind, and soul, and helps to create a balance between work and play. However, travel requires a certain amount of preparation. Before you leave for a trip, no matter how long, go through these safety checkpoints to ensure your home is left in the best condition possible and that you will return home to a stress-free environment.
Safety
Before leaving, be sure to unplug your devices, including large appliances. This will prevent any accidental electrical shocks and also save energy. Even when turned off, devices that are plugged in continue to consume electricity.
Ensure that the heat, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) systems are working properly. You don’t want to return to a disappointingly warm or cold home, right? For this, rely only on a professional HVAC service.
Ensure that the smoke detectors and security gadgets are working properly.
Keep your home on energy saving mode. Set the thermostat to a few degrees higher than the ambient temperature. This will moderate the indoor temperature with less energy consumption. Close the blinds to limit heat precipitation.
Security
Inform at least three close contacts that you are not going to be around for a while. They should also know about your itinerary so that they know where to reach you in case of an emergency. It is a good idea to ask one of your trusted friends or a family member to visit your home for a routine check.
Also, inform the local police of your vacation plans, especially if your trip is a long one. If they are in the know, they can keep a closer watch on your closed home while you are away.
Bills, Recharges, and Services
Pay your due bills to avoid any inconvenience when you return. Recharge your mobile and data plans if you are using a prepaid service. Put your mail and newspaper delivery on hold. You can visit the post office and inform them of your absence to have them hold your mail until you return.
If you have furry companions, it is best to keep them under pet care. Leaving them in the home is not a good idea. They need companionship and someone to take care of their basic needs like feeding them and letting them out for relief and exercise.
Your indoor flora is your companion as much as your furry friend is. They provide you comfort and warmth.Water them properly so that they will not starve in your absence, or have someone come by to check on your home and water your plants during your time away.
Documents and Papers
Lastly but still importantly, double-check that all your travel papers are in perfect order. This includes any and all travel tickets, hotel reservations, travel permits, and the like. Carry your official ID and driver’s license with you.
And of course, money, especially of the plastic variety. If you are going for an international vacation, be sure to have adequate exchange money with you. Also, keep your cards handy because Camden Lock Market is the perfect place to eat, shop, drink and dance! These preparations and precautions will help you enjoy a worry-free vacation. They will also help you to avoid any unpleasant surprises when you return.
Traveling?
Check out some of these great tips, tricks, and checklists to help you keep your home safe while you are away.
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