Going on vacation? Lucky you! But, don’t leave without taking precautions to protect your home. Otherwise you may not feel quite so lucky when you return. To guard against burglars, it’s a good idea to make your home look lived in. Mail piling up, or multiple newspapers on the lawn, are sure signs that the owner is away. Help your home appear occupied at night by plugging an inside light into a timer. Plumbing and electrical precautions include unplugging small appliances and electronic devices, and turning off dishwasher and washing machine water valves.

Save a little energy by setting your thermostat to a temperature close to what outside temps are expected to be, and be sure your smoke alarms are working. For more great ideas on keeping your home safe while you’re away, check out these suggestions from Nationwide.

Here’s one more essential tip for assuring that you return to a home, sweet home: Take the garbage out before you leave!

Tags: home security, home security tips, vacation