Insurance Corner: Protect your home while away this summer
by Martha Marton

Whether you're planning a vacation or a trip this summer, keep in mind that an empty house is a tempting target for a burglar.

You can reduce the possibility that your home will be broken into while you're gone if you use a common sense approach to keeping it safe:

Don't broadcast your plans. If you have a neighbor that you trust, you may consider telling them your itinerary and your estimated time of arrival and return. If you provide a key, they will be able to periodically check on the house.

A telephone number will allow them to call in the event of an emergency.

Never let the house appear empty from the street - Stop your newspaper delivery, and have your neighbor pick up your mail and any packages left on the front porch.

Ask your neighbor to place garbage cans at the curb on normal pickup days and put them back after the garbage pickup.

If you leave your car at home, park it where you normally would. However, be sure your neighbor moves it occasionally so that it appears the car is being driven. If you're driving your car, have your neighbor periodically park in your driveway or in front of your house.

Your home shouldn't seem empty on the inside either - Plug in timers to turn lights and even a television on and off at appropriate times.

Turn the ringer on your telephone down. If a burglar is around, and hears a call that goes unanswered, they'll know you're away.

Don't leave a message on your answering machine notifying everyone you're on vacation.

Leave your blinds, shades and curtains in a normal position.

Don't close them unless you would normally do so while at home.

Don't give thieves alternate ways to enter your home - Lock garage doors and windows.

You should also secure storage sheds, attic entrances and yard gates. Repair any broken windows or locks.

Never assume a burglar won't find the one that's faulty.

Don't leave valuables in plain sight - Consider locking valuables in a bank safety deposit box. If you do leave valuables at home, make sure they are engraved.

This simple precaution will allow stolen property to be easily identified and returned to you if recovered later.

If you haven't updated your insurance, be sure to do so well in advance. (Not on your way to the airport!)

If you have not looked at your homeowner's policy in two or more years, it is a good time to review to be sure coverage is adequate.

New purchases or gifts such as jewelry, fur coats, silverware, works of art, etc. may have limited coverage on your policy and should be added separately.

If you are traveling with valuable items, call to see if coverage available on your policy and if not, how coverage can be arranged before you leave.

Now that you have taken care of everything, you will be able to enjoy your trip. Have a great vacation!

For additional information, contact Martha Marton at Tupling Insurance Brokers Limited 7 0 5 . 4 5 8 . 8 1 1 1 marthamarton@tuplingins urance.com

Tupling Insurance Brokers, 1070 Innisfil Beach Road, Innisfil, ON L9S 4T9 705.431.5585