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Tips To Keep Your Home Safe This Summer!

Summer is here and chances are you’re eager to get started on your vacation plans! Here are a few simple tips to help you save energy and keep your home safe while you’re gone.

Energy Saving Tips:
Turn your heat pump or air conditioner off if you can. If you must leave it on, set the thermostat at 85 to 90 degrees. For every degree of temperature raised, you’ll save about 2 to 3 percent on the cooling part of your electric bill.

Turn off your water heater at the circuit breaker of fuse box (remember to run water from the hot water faucet to be certain the heater still has water in it before you turn the breaker back on)

Turn your refrigerator’s thermostat control to a slightly warmer setting if you’re going away for a few days. If you’re planning on leaving for a few weeks, you may want to turn it off. If so, clean it out thoroughly and leave the doors open to prevent mildew from forming.

Turn off lights except for those needed for security. Use timers to control lights for security purposes.

Home Safety Tips:
While your gone, it’s smart to make it seem like your house is still being occupied!

Use a timer to turn your radio and lights on and off throughout the day and evening. Close blinds and draperies in at least one lighted room and tell the neighbor which lights will be turning on and off. Also make sure your yard is well lit at night.

Consider using “call forwarding” for your phone so that your phone calls will automatically forward to another number where someone will answer them for you.

Ask citizens patrol to do drive-by’s for you while you are gone.

Have your lawn maintained while away.

All mail, newspapers, and other delivered items should be picked up or held until you return.

Have a neighbor put trash in your garbage cans and take it out on collection day. Also ask if they can park a car in your driveway at night if possible.

Keep these simple tips in mind and have a safe, fun, and stress-free summer vacation! Have any tips of your own? Share them with us by posting it below!