Winter Holidays tends to be some of the busiest travel days of the year. And this year looks like it will follow that trend.
If you plan on traveling for the holidays, we have a few tips for managing your home while you are away.
Take precautions against fire
You should always have this in the back of your mind anyway, but any time you are away, be doubly aware. One of the top fire risks in your home is all the electronics you have plugged in.
TVs, computers, and unused chargers are all items you can unplug before heading out. Yes, none of us can do without them, but minimize the risk by unplugging non-critical electronics when you leave for vacation. And you might save a few bucks on your power bill.
Program your thermostat
Speaking of saving on your power bill, programming your thermostat while away is another great option. With smart thermostats, you can control all kinds of settings, even remotely. If no one is going to be in the home, there is no need to keep it super toasty.
Tidy up around the house
Coming back to a clean home is glorious. Coming home to a home that is not clean, not so glorious. We all know a cluttered home causes stress, and if you are coming home from a, hopefully, relaxing vacation, you want to maintain that level of comfort. Take an hour, minimum, before you leave to clean out the fridge, vacuum, and generally straighten up.
Then on your way out the door, take the trash out with you.
Pets and Mail
Depending on how long you will be gone, have a neighbor or friend pick up your newspaper if you still get one, and check on your mail or you can request a Mail Hold from the USPS.
Have pets that you don’t want to take with you or board? Have a friend or neighbor take your pets or check in on them once or twice a day to keep them fed and happy, if it’s a cat, that often works out OK..
If you are traveling for the holidays, please travel safely, and have a great time!
If people are traveling to you, still have a great time!
Happy Holidays!
Salt Lake City And You
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