Essential Checklist for Home Safety Before You Leave for Vacation

Leaving your home for a vacation brings excitement, but it also raises concerns about security. A few simple steps can protect your property and give you peace of mind while you’re away. This checklist covers practical actions to keep your home safe and reduce risks of theft, damage, or accidents during your absence.

Front door locked with deadbolt for home safety

Secure All Entry Points

Start by checking every door and window. Burglars often target easy access points, so make sure:

• All doors have sturdy locks, preferably deadbolts.

• Windows are fully closed and locked.

• Sliding doors have additional security bars or locks.

• Garage doors are locked and remote controls are stored safely.

  
  

If you have a security system, activate it and test sensors before leaving. Consider installing timers for outdoor lights to simulate occupancy.

Manage Your Mail and Deliveries

An overflowing mailbox signals absence. To avoid this:

• Pause mail and newspaper deliveries through your local post office.

• Ask a trusted neighbor or friend to collect mail and packages daily.

• Avoid leaving packages outside; arrange for pickup or delivery to a secure location.

  
  

This reduces the chance of theft and keeps your home looking lived-in.

Mailbox filled with mail and newspapers during vacation

Prepare Your Home Systems

Prevent damage from leaks, pests, or power issues by preparing your home systems:

• Turn off the main water supply to avoid leaks or flooding.

• Unplug non-essential electronics to save energy and prevent electrical fires.

• Set your thermostat to an energy-saving temperature but avoid extremes that could cause pipe freezing or mold.

• Clean out gutters and drains to prevent water buildup.

  
  

If you have a smart home system, program it for remote monitoring and control.

Inform Trusted Contacts and Neighbors

Let someone reliable know your travel dates and emergency contacts. This person can:

• Check on your home periodically.

• Collect mail or packages.

• Alert you or authorities if anything unusual happens.

  
  

Leave a spare key with them instead of hiding one outside, which is often discovered by intruders.

Neighbor holding spare house key for home safety

Secure Valuables and Personal Information

Protect your valuables and sensitive documents by:

• Storing jewelry, cash, and important papers in a safe or safety deposit box.

• Avoiding public announcements of your travel plans on social media.

• Backing up important digital files and passwords securely.

  
  

This reduces the risk of theft and identity fraud.

Final Walkthrough and Safety Checks

Before leaving, do a final walkthrough to ensure everything is in order:

• Check all windows and doors one last time.

• Ensure all lights, especially timers, are working.

• Confirm that smoke detectors and carbon monoxide alarms have fresh batteries.

• Lock gates, sheds, and any outdoor storage areas.

  
  

Taking these last steps helps prevent accidents and keeps your home secure.