The Week In Review: August 6, 2025

I'm Leaving Town

I can't wait to head on vacation with my family later this month. In addition to scheduling appointments, stocking up on travel essentials and packing, I use a checklist to protect my home.

Temperature Regulation

• In warmer weather, set your thermostat to 5 degrees warmer than your home’s regular temperature. In cooler weather, set your thermostat to 5 degrees cooler than your home’s regular temperature.
• Have your HVAC system serviced prior to your departure.

Security

• Lock up! Ensure your front door, back door, garage door, the door between your garage and home, sliding doors, and pet doors are all locked using deadbolts when possible.
• Lock your garage door manually. Electric garage door openers may be susceptible to scanners that can allow burglars access into your garage.
• Don't hide keys under rocks, door mats, or porches.
• Install and program light timers that turn on indoor and outdoor lights.
• Inform your neighbors of your planned absence.
• If you generally keep your blinds open, leave them that way, as closed blinds for an extended period suggest that no one is home. Hide valuable possessions out of sight from any open windows.
• Arrange for mail and package pick up. A pile of Amazon deliveries at your front door sends the wrong signal.

Water and Electrical Risks

• Unplug all small appliances that aren’t a light source or part of your security system. Kitchen appliances, living room appliances, and office appliances should be unplugged to prevent damage during storms.
• Use water sensors around the hot water heater, air conditioner and toilets - these are easy and link to an app on your phone.
• Set your water heater to the lowest level.
• Ensure your sump pump and the backup battery, if applicable, is working properly.

Indoor Maintenance

• Empty your refrigerator of perishable items.
• Leave your kitchen clean by emptying the garbage, cleaning dirty dishes, wiping down counters, and cleaning the garbage disposal with vinegar.
• Open all interior doors between rooms to allow air to circulate better throughout your home.
• Check the batteries in your smoke detectors to ensure they’re working properly.

Outdoor Maintenance

• Schedule upkeep for your lawn and landscaping, such as mowing the grass and watering plants, to give the appearance that someone is home.
• Clean your gutters and downspouts to prepare for heavy rainfall.