Summer Safety Tips: Protect Your Home & Family With Help From a Home Insurance Broker

As summer approaches, many of us eagerly plan vacations with our loved ones, seeking relaxation or thrilling adventures. However, before you embark on your journey, it’s crucial to ensure your home’s safety and maintenance while you’re away.

Keeping Your Home Safe While You’re Away

Whether you’re a homeowner or a renter, here are some valuable tips that will give you peace of mind as you enjoy the joys of summer.

• Invest in a reliable water leak detection device – Coming back from a delightful trip only to find your basement flooded is the last thing you want. By installing a water leak-detection device, you can enjoy peace of mind and potentially even save on insurance costs.Opt for a flow-based detection device equipped with an automatic water shut-off valve. If a leak occurs, the system will promptly shut off the water supply. Additionally, many devices offer mobile notifications to alert you about any irregularities.

• Appoint a trusted person as your emergency contact – It’s wise to have a reliable family member, friend, or property manager who can check on your home and address any emergencies that may arise during your absence. Ensure they have access to your keys and/or gate code. Tasks such as collecting mail or returning garbage bins after pickup can create the illusion that someone is home, enhancing security.
• Refrain from posting vacation pictures on social media while you’re away – While sharing precious moments on social platforms is enjoyable, it’s best to wait until you return home to share your adventures. Broadcasting your absence through photos signals to potential burglars that your residence is unoccupied, making it a tempting target.

Vacation Safety Tips for Summer

For those staying at secondary or seasonal vacation homes, here are additional tips for your extended stay:

• Inspect your property for any signs of damage – Take a walk around the perimeter, thoroughly checking the porch, deck, roof (if it’s safe), and common areas for any visible signs of damage that may have occurred since your last visit.
• Test your smoke and carbon monoxide detectors – Replace the batteries in your detectors and test them to ensure they are functioning correctly.
• Implement security practices similar to those at your primary residence – A smart home security system can be incredibly beneficial, allowing you to monitor both your primary and secondary homes through a single app, regardless of your location.
• For boat excursions, plan ahead – Complete a pre-departure checklist and review boating safety protocols. Consider essential factors when selecting a marina, yacht club, or other facilities. Learn important knots such as the Figure Eight, Bowline, Square, Anchor Bend, Two Half Hitches, and Clove Hitch. Animated videos and articles can assist you in mastering these knots.

Speak to Your Home Insurance Broker

Before you embark on your summer vacation or extended stay at your secondary home, it’s highly recommended to have a conversation with your trusted home insurance broker. They can provide valuable insights specific to your insurance policy and coverage, ensuring you have the necessary protection in place while you’re away. Your insurance broker can help address any concerns, answer questions, and even offer additional coverage options that may be beneficial for your specific situation.

By consulting with your home insurance broker, you can have peace of mind knowing that your property is adequately protected, allowing you to fully enjoy your summer adventures without worrying about the unexpected. So take the time to reach out to your insurance broker and have a thorough discussion before you set off on your well-deserved break.

Blog posts from Alpine Insurance are for general information only. The content should not be considered insurance advice. If you are in need of professional insurance advice, please reach out to our team.