The arrival of Spring means the snow is (hopefully) gone and the ground is thawing, making way for a seasonal melt. It also means Spring Break for families and kids, when they get to enjoy some time away from school and work. It is also a popular time to get away to try and grab some sunshine or a much-needed break from the winter.
Spring break travel is popular amongst families and while this is an exciting time, you should consider ways of keeping your home and car safe while away so no one has to file an insurance claim once they get back. Keep the insurance claims at bay with these helpful tips:
Home Sweet Home
You may be gone for a long weekend or a full week. However long you are away, it is always important to make sure your home is properly secured and protected until you return.
Here are a few things you can do to protect your home while you are away:
- Inform family/friends or neighbours to check on your home and car
- Unplug unused electronics and prep smart gadgets
- Set timers on lights outside of your house so it is not completely dark
- Make sure all windows/doors are locked and the home security system is on
- Put cash and valuables in a safe/safety deposit box
- Make it look like someone is home, put a lamp or radio on a timer
- Tidy up/take out the trash, give away or toss food that may spoil
- Put away/secure things in your backyard into the garage or shed
- Close the blinds and drapes
- Adjust the temperature in your home
- Don’t announce your vacation on social media
- Have a friend or family member collect any deliveries or cancel your mail service or auto-ship subscriptions
Going on vacation is also an excellent time to update and record your household goods such as appliances, jewelry, and other valued items. Taking photos or videos of your home's contents before you leave is a simple way to keep track of your possessions in case you need to make an insurance claim.
Get Road Trip Ready
If your Spring break travel means a road trip, then making sure your car is ready for the drive is important. Take it in to see a mechanic for a spring maintenance check-up; change the fluids and if necessary maybe swap out winter tires. This will ensure you and your family are safe on the road.
Here are a few other things to keep in mind before you hit the road:
- Check the weather to prepare accordingly
- Plan your route ahead of time
- Prepare for traffic; plan alternate routes
- Pack snacks and drinks
- Have an emergency kit in the car
- Avoid distracted/tired driving, take turns driving with other drivers
- Plan any overnight stops so you are not searching for availability late at night