Away for Spring Break? Tips to Protect your Home

Spring Break starts this weekend! With Ole Miss and local schools out March 11-15, we thought we would share some tips for protecting your home while you are away.

1. Hold your mail. You can fill out the quick, easy form online here. Also, you could have a friend pick up your mail and packages, so nothing is left by the front door that might alert someone that you are not home.

2. Create the illusion of someone at home. You could set a light or two to a timer. You could leave one car at home in the driveway.

3. Do not share on social media that you are away or are going away. Post your photos after you return.

4. Leave a friend or neighbor a spare key. That way they can access the home in case of emergency.

5. Advertise your security. Put a sign in the yard of your current alarm company. Don’t have an alarm company, put a fake sign out. You could also install fake cameras.

6. Unplug unnecessary appliances. This includes items like the tv, coffee makers, toaster ovens, etc.

7. Lock-up your valuables. Fine jewelry, wills or other sensitive information could be put away in a fire-proof safe.

8. Let your alarm company know you’ll be away.

9. Shut off the main water valve to prevent water damage. Turn off the hot-water tank and drain it. During winter, set the thermostat high enough to prevent frozen pipes.

10. Guard against fire and electrical damage. Make sure your fireplace is cleaned. Unplug appliances and extension cords.