Travelling soon? Help keep your home safe with these tips

(NC) While vacationing, home security is the last thing you want to worry about. From deterring burglars to avoiding disasters, taking proactive measures can reassure you that your home is protected in your absence.

Whether leaving for a few days, a week or longer, homeowners can safeguard their homes with a few helpful tips:

• Protect against leaks and flooding. Water damage can wreak havoc on your home, especially when left unchecked while you’re away. Leak detectors are easy to set up and integrate seamlessly through an app, so you can receive alerts about potential problems wherever you are.

• Install a customized security system. A monitored alarm system with outdoor and indoor cameras will allow you to keep an eye on things while you are away. Contact your local security dealer to get a security system that’s right for your home.

• Maintain comfort and energy efficiency. With a smart thermostat, such as the Honeywell Home T9 Smart Thermostat, you can program a “vacation mode” that sets your desired temperature for while you’re away and for when you return.

• Pause regular mail, package and newspaper deliveries. Pausing deliveries may not only avert package theft, but it also eliminates a telltale sign that no one is home. Alternatively, ask a trusted neighbour to grab your mail for safekeeping until you return.

• Set up light switch timers. Programming timers for both interior and exterior lights to go on and off at different times of the day creates the illusion that someone is home.

You can also stay safe with a portable carbon monoxide (CO) detector when travelling to areas that don’t require rental properties or hotels to install CO monitors.

Find more info on water leak detectors and CO safety at firstalert.ca.