Vacation Home Checklist

	Before you leave, it's always a great idea to:
	Have newspaper and mail stopped or regularly picked up by a trusted neighbor Make sure a neighbor knows where the water main shut-off is located in the event of a broken pipe Ask a trusted neighbor to check on your home Set timers on interior lights to deter burglars Unplug TV, computer and appliances susceptible to lightning and power surges Advise your alarm company and local police if you will be gone for an extended vacation Take jewelry and valuable papers to a safe deposit box Turn off water valves to your washing machine, icemaker and dishwasher Arrange for lawn care while you are away
	During cold weather:
	Set the heat in your home to no lower than 55 degrees Fahrenheit (12 degrees Celsius) Allow hot and cold water to drip from faucets near outside walls Keep downspouts and gutters clear of debris Disconnect all garden hoses Locate and insulate pipes most susceptible to freezing. Typically those near outer walls, in crawl spaces and in the attic are the most vulnerable. Open cabinet doors to allow heat to reach uninsulated pipes under sinks and where appliances are near exterior walls Shut off and drain the water system in your home (except indoor sprinkler systems) before an extended vacation Consider installing a whole house water leak detection system to help prevent or reduce water damage resulting from a plumbing leak