As the holiday season approaches, ensuring your home is secure and fully protected against potential risks is essential for a worry-free break.
Here are some key tips to help you stay ready:
- Test alarms, smoke detectors, motion sensors, and armed response services to ensure they are functioning correctly.
- Update your security service provider with the latest contact details, especially if you have a house sitter or friend/family member checking on your home.
- Provide a trusted individual with a spare key in case of emergencies.
- Replace batteries in passive alarm sensors and smoke detectors.
- Check and secure all windows, doors, garage doors, gates, and exterior lighting.
- Ensure electric fencing is operational and free of branches or plants that may compromise its efficiency.
- Unplug unused appliances and lights to avoid short circuits or lighting strikes.
- Turn off systems like geysers, and water pumps to minimise the risk of burst pipes.
- Verify that light fixtures and wiring are properly connected and functioning. Having a fire extinguisher available can be beneficial, particularly if someone will house-sit.
- Hire a house sitter to care for your property, pets, and plants, and provide them with emergency contacts, procedures, and cash for urgent repairs.
- If not using a house sitter, arrange for a trusted friend, family member, or neighbour to check your home regularly.
- Set outdoor lights on a timer and leave at least one small indoor lamp on to deter criminals.
- Thoroughly clean your home to avoid additional work upon returning from your holiday.
- Maintain your lawn and remove debris to make the property appear occupied.
- Ensure gas cylinders are safely stored, with all nozzles securely closed.
- Empty trash and clean surfaces to prevent pests, bacteria, bad odours, and mould.
- Declutter and donate unwanted household items, such as clothes and toys, to make a positive impact.
- Clear out your fridge to prevent food spoilage during power outages.
- Service your vehicle and conduct a safety check before travelling. Claims may be denied if damage results from a vehicle being unroadworthy.
- Inspect the condition of your vehicle’s headlights, indicators, and wiper blades.
- Check tyre pressure, rotation, and alignment, including your spare tyre.
- Verify oil, water, and coolant levels to avoid overheating or unexpected breakdowns.
For more risk management advice or to optimise your insurance coverage, visit our website or contact us directly.
Wishing you and your loved ones a joyful and safe holiday season!
Wyngaardt Brokers (Pty) Ltd is an Authorised Financial Services Provider (FSP 53138).
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