For many Canadians, protecting their home from burglary prior to a vacation is often secondary to preparing for the trip itself. But no matter where you live, your income or your lifestyle, crime is a fact of life.
According to the Insurance Bureau of Canada, in 2005, theft accounted for 18 per cent of all homeowner insurance claims. Making sure your property is protected while you're away will ensure you're better able to enjoy your vacation.
Here are a few things to keep in mind before you leave:
- Ask a trusted neighbour to regularly check on your home for anything out of the ordinary.
- Set timers on interior and exterior lights or leave a few lights on in your house.
- Review your current home insurance policy to ensure it's up-to-date.
- Ensure your house appears lived in. Hire someone to shovel your walkways or mow your lawn and cancel newspaper and mail delivery or have someone pick them up.
- Ask a neighbour to park an additional car in your driveway.
- Don't leave spare keys hidden outside. Burglars routinely check welcome mats and window ledges.
- Install reliable dead-bolt door locks and sturdy window latches to help prevent break-ins.
- Store valuable jewelry and documents in a safe deposit box.
- Notify your alarm company if you're taking an extended vacation.
So when you leave for your next holiday, make sure you've considered all of these points. You'll feel better knowing that while you are away, you've taken as many precautions as you could have to ensure your home is safe.
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