Technology also comes with its own privacy risks. Connected devices can be
hacked or they can malfunction, and social media opens up a whole other can of worms.
SafeWise's first home safety tip
is to keep your travel plans private. Don't post your vacation schedule on
Facebook and don't load up your Instagram with beach day photos.
On the other hand, it is wise to let a neighbor know if and when you'll be traveling,
so they can report any suspicious activity to you while you're away. If you're new to
the neighborhood, you may call on a friend who lives close enough to occasionally
check in. You may also ask these kind folks for the additional favor of picking up
your mail. The United States Postal Service suggests using an alternate shipping
address, like a neighbor's house, or requesting their packages to be held at the
Post Office.
Winter Maintenance
Whether you're hosting the holidays at your house this year or you're traveling,
there are a few housekeeping items that will enhance home safety.
First is fire safety.
If you haven't already, hire a professional chimney sweep to clear your chimney of debris
before you gather 'round the fireplace. Other fire prevention tips include: inspecting
holiday lights for broken bulbs or frayed wires, keeping candles away from children and
other decorations or combustibles, and replacing batteries in smoke and carbon monoxide
detectors.
If you have one, give your
home warranty company
a call. Ask them about what is
and isn't covered under your plan. Understanding your coverage and the claims
process can expedite home repairs when you're under a time crunch.
If you're hosting family or friends this year and you're lucky - or not so lucky -
to enjoy a white Christmas, it's important to shovel snow and salt walkways.
Replace burnt out bulbs around your home's exterior. This will not only keep
your visitor's path illuminated, but it'll also cast a welcoming glow this holiday
season.
Paige A. Mitchell is a new freelance writer who is exploring her interests through writing. She loves sharing tips on making homes healthier and more functional. When she's not writing, you can find Paige gardening, running with her pet Aussie, or reading the book version of the latest blockbuster movie.
