Chinese New Year (CNY) is just around the corner and since this year's CNY falls on a long weekend, I believe most of you must have already planned to go back to your hometown or perhaps some may have planned to travel abroad to spend the holiday with your family and loved ones.
No matter where your destination is, your holiday should be a relax and worry-free holiday. Before you leave your home for a holiday, here's some tips to keep your home secure during the holiday:
1. Ask your friend or neighbour to help
Before leaving your home for holiday, it is very crucial to inform your trusted friend or neighbour and ask them to keep an eye on your house while you are away. Next, ask them to check your house periodically. You may also give them your house key so that he or she can help you to water your plants or maybe to start your car engine.
2. Invest on light timer
Purchase a light switch timer that automatically turn the interior and exterior lights on and off according to a programmed schedule. The lights go on and off will help to create illusion that someone is occupying the house. Do not leave your lights on throughout your entire vacation because it will not only increase your electricity bills but it may be a tell-tale sign that you are actually away.
3. Pull the plug on electronics
Unplug unnecessary electronic appliances except for refrigerator and those on timer to protect your them from fire surge. Besides that, even when these appliances are switched off, electronics still use energy. Unplugging your electronic appliances will help you to save on electricity bills.
4. Lock up your valuables in a safe box
Home thieves will normally target the bedroom first for valuables. So, invest on small safe box and keep all your valuables secure in it. Keep your valuables out of sight and don't leave them near to windows or where they can be seen through the window.
5. Turn off the main water supply
Turn off your main water supply even if you'll be gone only for few days because leaks happen and the last thing you want is to return to a flooded home.
6. Secure all doors and windows
Make sure you have securely locked all your doors and windows before you leave for holiday because these are the favourite access point for home thieves.
7. Don't boast about your holiday plan on social media
Do not brag about your upcoming holiday (especially when it involves the whole family) in the social media. You don't know who can read your posts or who they will tell and this serves as an open invitation to thieves who are looking for empty house.
Once you've checked these items off your list, you can now take a little breathe, knowing that you've done your part to keep your home secure before you leave.
I'd like to take this opportunity to wish those who are celebrating, a very Happy Chinese New Year and Gong Xi Fa Chai!
If you're driving back to your home town, please be safe on the road!
