4 Tips for Locking up for Winter Break
Well, it's that time of year again, winter break is upon us! There are still some vital things to remember before you head out to enjoy your winter break. Whether you’re flying across the globe or driving 30 minutes away, here are some tips when leaving your place for winter:
1. Turn down your heat to 50 degrees and unplug all electronics:
This includes turning off your lights. This not only ensures a cheaper heating and electricity bill but 50 degrees is also warm enough to ensure that your pipes don't freeze and burst while you are away. No one likes to come back to a soggy home!
2. Clear away all perishable items from the fridge:
The worst thing to return to is a smelly apartment and a moldy fridge. To avoid this, be sure to clean out all perishable items from your refrigerator and take out all your trash.
3. Have the Post Office hold your mail:
If you normally experience high volumes of packages or mail, it may be a good idea to either leave a forwarding address or have the Post Office hold your mail. This not only stops letters and packages from piling up in your mailbox but it also decreases the possibility of a package being stolen or damaged.
4. Secure your home:
Last but not least, do not forget to secure your residence. This includes locking your door and windows. Be sure to take your valuables with you as well as your identification cards like your passport and driver license. If you want to stay updated on the possible crime alerts in your neighborhood, you can find them at CrimeMapping.
I hope these tips can help you avoid some potential winter disasters. Have a great break!
Contributed by Imani Carson, Neighborhood Ambassador