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Guest article by Rhonda Martin, Plan For Wealth
Are you heading away this summer?
Whether your plans include travel locally or further afield, integrating some of these smart holiday habits that can prevent theft headaches and make the most of your summer holiday plans.
- Book attraction tickets early: Summer crowds cause massive lines at popular sites. Reserve entrance tickets online weeks in advance to skip long queues
- Travel during off-peak hours: Beat the heat and traffic by visiting sights early in the morning. Alternatively, explore during the cooler late afternoon
- Pack temperature-regulating clothing: When going on a day trip, bring lightweight, breathable layers, a hat and a light waterproof jacket for sudden seasonal downpours
- Stay hydrated consistently: Heat exhaustion can quickly ruin a trip. Carry a reusable insulated water bottle to keep drinks cold throughout the day, or consider carrying electrolyte packets to add extra hydration to your water bottle
- Keep a flexible itinerary: Extreme summer heat or sudden storms can disrupt holiday plans. Always have an indoor activity identified as a backup – just in case!
- Domestic travel insurance: Low-cost travel within Canada plans can give you peace of mind that you are covered for medical emergencies. Bonus tip: Check your work health benefits to see if you have travel insurance coverage through your employer
Ways to keep your home safe while you are away
Leaving your home vacant during summer vacation makes it a prime target for burglars. Property crimes traditionally spike during the summer months when families travel.
Here are some effective ways to secure your home while you enjoy your summer getaway.
Create the Illusion of Occupancy
Burglars look for easy targets, and an empty house is invitation enough. Your primary goal should be making your home look actively lived in. Here are some suggestions:
- Automate your lighting: Do not leave your porch or indoor lights on constantly, as this signals an empty house during the day. Use smart plugs or mechanical timers to turn lamps on and off at natural times
- Manage your deliveries: Avoid the junk mail pile-up at your front door – it’s a dead giveaway that you aren’t home. Consider pausing subscriptions and deliveries – or ask a trusted neighbor to collect everything daily
- Maintain the yard: Overgrown grass proves no one is home. What about hiring a lawn service, neighbour or local youth to cut your grass and water outdoor plants at your regular intervals?
Upgrade Your Physical and Digital Security
High-tech tools combined with traditional locking mechanisms form a robust defense system against intruders.
- Lock every entry point: Double-check the locks on all windows, pet doors, and sliding glass gates. Place a wooden dowel or metal bar in the track of sliding doors to prevent them from being forced open
- Install smart security cameras: Modern Wi-Fi cameras allow you to monitor your property from anywhere via your smartphone
- Secure the garage: Consider disconnecting your automatic garage door opener and use a manual latch lock on the inside track. This prevents thieves from using universal remotes or the “coat hanger trick” to fish open your garage door release mechanism
Prevent Costly Utility Emergencies
Water leaks and power surges can cause catastrophic damage if left unaddressed. Why not:
- Shut off the main water valve: A burst pipe, inside or out, or leaking toilet can flood your home in a matter of hours. Shutting off the main water supply entirely eliminates this risk. (This is usually located in your furnace room)
- Unplug major electronics: Protect your television, computers, and kitchen appliances from summer lightning storms and power surges by unplugging them from the wall
- Adjust your thermostat: Do not turn your air conditioning completely off, as extreme heat and humidity can warp wooden furniture and promote mold growth. Instead, set your thermostat to a conservative temperature like 26°C (78°F)
Practice Digital and Social Discretion
Loose lips and public data can accidentally invite criminals to your doorstep, so beware what you share!
- Delay your social media posts: Avoid posting real-time photos, check-ins, or countdowns of your vacation. Wait until you return home to share your travel memories publicly
- Notify a trusted neighbour: Let one or two neighbors know the exact dates you will be away. Give them a spare key, provide your emergency contact information, and ask them to report any suspicious activity around your property
- Hide your valuables: Do not leave expensive laptops, jewelry, or car keys visible through your front windows. Store high-value items in a fireproof home safe or a bank safety deposit box before you leave
Have fun- and be safe!
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