Summer is the perfect antidote to take some time off to destress and enjoy some tranquility. Whether that means enjoying a few days cruising the Maltese coastline on a boat, loosening up in a Gozitan farmhouse or jetting off to a foreign destination, your priority before you leave should be the security of your home.
If your home is going to be unmanned for a couple of days, owners should take all necessary caution to avoid any devastating circumstances. We’re about to shine a light on some precautionary measures you should take before you lock the door behind you. Don’t forget to ensure your home insurance policy is in full force too.
CLOSE OFF THE WATER METER TO AVOID POTENTIAL FLOODING
It’s not the first time residents go home to knee-deep water caused by a complication with the geyser or an issue with a leaky pipe. Apart from the hassle of having to mop everywhere, the water would have already caused damages to the furniture, gypsum, carpets and paint by the time you arrive; potentially also to your neighbours. It’s best to deal with water-related problems when you can easily keep an eye on the property. Close off the water system completely just before you leave.
DON’T SHUT THE CURTAINS OR BLINDS COMPLETELY
If it is your custom to leave blinds or curtains slightly ajar during the day or night, adopt the same method when you intend on being out of the house for full days. It will not draw so much attention to any passers-by with bad intentions.
KEEP DOORS CLOSED LEADING FROM ROOFS, BALCONIES OR COURTYARDS
Summer seems to invite all creepy crawlies to search for rest indoors away from the scorching heat. Don’t just rely on insect screens. Shoo away any mosquitoes, cockroaches or unwelcomed insects by closing all possible entries. Locking entry points is also advised to avoid any robberies.
ASK YOUR NEIGHBOUR OR FRIEND FOR LETTERBOX ASSISTANCE
Piles of junk mail and bills in the letterbox are a sign of unoccupancy. Homeowners with wall-mounted letterboxes should pay more attention due to the limited space of such mail boxes. Choose someone trustworthy with the key to the letterbox or front door to pick up the mail every couple of days and place them safely on a secure surface. Such custom could also protect your mail from the weather elements such as rain and wind, which could damage your mail.
PARK CARS IN THE GARAGE OR A FEW STREETS AWAY
Should you own a garage with enough car space, keep your vehicle safe and away from harm’s way inside. Keeping it away from the road will avoid any accidental collisions and deter burglars. Having the car parked at the same spot for a lengthy period might even attract unwanted attention and reveal that you are not at home.
INSTALL INDOOR LIGHTS WITH TIMERS
Unless you operate a smart home that allows you to switch lights on and off from the comfort of your phone, you might want to install a couple of lights within the house to go on when darkness falls. This will come in handy if you arrive late in pitch black and have to fondle for the switches. It will also emulate your day-to-day movements to make the house appear like it is being used.
Have any tips of your own that you find handy? Let us know in the comments section on Facebook!