How to Protect Your Home While on Vacation
Who doesn't love to travel? It's an exciting way to explore new destinations, make lasting memories, and take a break from the daily grind. Travel becomes especially appealing during the harsh Canadian winters when many look for warmer places to escape the cold.
But to fully enjoy your vacation, it's important to prioritize your safety and security—whether you're on the trip or leaving your home behind. In this blog post, we'll cover essential travel safety tips, how to safeguard your home while you're away, and why having both home and travel insurance is key to a worry-free vacation.
Securing Your Home
Before you pack your suitcase and leave for the airport, you must secure your home to avoid break-ins and prevent unwanted surprises.
Did you know that the average home burglary only takes eight to ten minutes? The average loss after a home break-in is approximately $2,000, with cash, electronics, prescription drugs, and jewellery as the most targeted items (ADT).
A proactive approach is vital to ensuring peace of mind while on vacation. Follow these security tips to keep your home safe:
1) Ask for Help:
Arrange for a trusted friend, neighbour, or family member to monitor your home. Let them know your departure and return dates, and provide a contact number and a spare key.
Have them check the inside regularly to maintain a lived-in appearance, such as opening and closing the curtains.
2) Home Security Measures:
Invest in a security system to deter potential intruders and give you peace of mind.
Set timers on indoor lights to create the illusion that someone is home, and install motion-sensor lights outside, both in the front and back.
Store valuables you're not taking with you in a safe, safety deposit box, or other secure offsite location.
3) Lock All Entry Points:
Double-check that all doors and windows, including the garage, are securely locked before leaving.
Consider adding security bars to reinforce sliding glass doors.
Tips for Safe Travels
While securing your home is important, prioritizing your personal safety while travelling is equally essential. Follow these tips to ensure a stress-free and enjoyable vacation:
1) Plan Ahead:
Research your destination: Learn about local customs, emergency contacts, and the nearest embassy or consulate at your destination.
Share your itinerary: Give a trusted friend or family member your travel itinerary so someone knows where you are at all times.
Pack an emergency kit: Include essentials like first aid supplies, medications, and contact information for local healthcare facilities.
2) Secure Your Belongings:
Safeguard valuables: Use a money belt or hidden pouch to store important items like passports, tickets, and credit cards.
Lock your luggage: Invest in TSA-approved locks to secure your suitcases and bags.
Avoid showing wealth: Refrain from displaying expensive jewellery or gadgets to prevent attracting unwanted attention.
3) Stay Connected:
Communication: Keep your loved ones updated about your location and check in regularly.
Use helpful apps: Download travel apps for navigation, translation, and access to emergency services.
4) Stay Alert:
Trust your instincts: If something feels off or unsafe, leave the area and seek assistance.
Stay aware of your surroundings: Avoid distractions like excessive phone use when walking in unfamiliar areas.
The Benefits of Insurance
The value of both home and travel insurance cannot be overstated—they serve as essential safety nets to safeguard your property and well-being while you're away.
Home Insurance: This type of insurance protects your home from damages or losses caused by events like theft, fire, or natural disasters. It can also provide liability coverage if someone is injured on your property while you're away. Additionally, water damage coverage, including overland flooding and sewer backup, is crucial, particularly if you live in a flood-prone area.
Travel Insurance: Travel insurance helps cover costs if your trip is cancelled, interrupted, or delayed. It typically includes coverage for medical emergencies, lost luggage, trip cancellations, and other unforeseen travel incidents.
Travel should be a fun and worry-free experience. By following travel safety tips, securing your home, and investing in insurance, you can significantly reduce potential risks, allowing you to focus on creating great memories. A little preparation can make a big difference in ensuring a smooth, enjoyable vacation.
You can speak with our insurance brokers to discuss your Home Insurance options or to review your existing policy. We’re also proud to meet your travel insurance needs. Learn more by visiting our Travel Insurance page, or contact us at 1-800-268-3311 or ebrokers@dbibrokers.ca today!
