Check everything before going on vacation! Tips for a smooth return home

For the vast majority, the holidays are about to begin. And it's very likely that we have planned a getaway from home to disconnect and recharge our batteries. Whether you're planning to go away for a few days or a couple of weeks, it's important to keep in mind certain safety recommendations that will undoubtedly contribute to a peaceful and smooth return.

This summer, beyond packing your bags and leaving your house clean and tidy for your return, we recommend checking the following points before closing the door, take note!

Do not leave valuables in plain sight. If you have security cabinets or a safe at home, it is preferable to store your valuables in them. If you do not have one, place your most prized possessions in a spot that is not visible or easily accessible.

Appliances and electrical devices turned off. Disconnect all the devices you can, from appliances, TV, computers, wifi... And don't leave them on standby because the little red light can account for up to a 10% expense on your electricity bill. Moreover, this way, you'll avoid potential damages caused by a power cut or surge.

An empty fridge is much better. A few days before leaving, check everything you have in the fridge and try to consume it. If you're going to be away from home for a long time, the most practical thing is to empty it completely, unplug it, and leave the door open to prevent bad odors. If it's not empty, then it's best to set it to the lowest possible cooling level, to avoid wasting energy.

Turn off the gas valve and the water valve. This is a very important step that we often forget, but it is essential to prevent any type of accident or leaks. Make sure that all the faucets in the house are properly closed and that there are no leaks.

Make sure to close doors, windows, and balconies properly. Don't forget to lock the main door of the house and secure the windows and balconies. If you also have security locks installed on sliding windows, that's even better. However, it is advisable not to lower the blinds completely, as this can give the impression of an empty house from the outside.

Do you have a security alarm? Don't forget to connect it. If you have any home security system or device, remember to activate it when you leave the house. And if you don't have alarms, a good idea is to leave your house keys with someone you completely trust so that they can periodically check in to make sure everything is fine. And by the way, if you have plants or green areas at home like a garden or terrace, they can also water them.

Currently, there are many additional options available, such as light dimmers or presence simulators that turn on certain house lights during scheduled time slots to make it appear as if the home is occupied. Even more advanced home automation solutions contribute to enhancing the security and efficiency of the home, even from afar.

And finally, a piece of advice: it's better not to announce your trip on social media. We all get excited about sharing our vacation plans with our online communities. However, it's important to remember that by posting information on social media, we might be revealing important details, such as the time and dates when the house will be empty, which could leave us vulnerable to potential thefts.

Ready to go? With these simple steps, you can leave home and enjoy your vacation knowing that everything is prepared.