Summer is here. Covid restrictions have been removed. People are ready to finally get out and travel. 

If you are getting ready to take a trip, there are a few things you may want to do before you pull out of your driveway. As a homeowners insurance agent, here are some steps we recommend that you take:

1. Clean out the refrigerator and the floors: Dispose of food that will expire during your absence. Clean all of the surfaces where you eat. Vacuum or wash the floors near the kitchen or in the dining areas. Wipe away any spills that are still fresh.

2. Spray for bugs/pests: Spray insecticide in those areas where bugs may infest. Look for mouse droppings. If any, lay down mouse traps. Make accommodations for your pets: If you have a dog, cat, or fish, make arrangements for sitters or neighbors to feed, water, and walk your dog and clean out the litter box for your cat. If you are boarding them, contact the boarding facility with detailed care instructions. Pack or make available your pet's foods, treats, toys, medicines, and other supplies.

3. Care for your plants: Have a friend or neighbor water your plants, Post detailed care and descriptions of each plan and their locations.

4. Wash your laundry: Wash all your laundry, especially those that are wet or have food stains on them. Then, put them away before you leave.

5. Unplug/reset the thermostat: Set the thermostat so the air conditioner won’t run hard, wasting energy and money running in an empty house. Close the vents in some rooms and also unplug small appliances.

6. Hold your mail: Alert your post office that you will need your mail held while you are gone. 

7. Trash preparation: Let your trash company know you cannot be parked at the curb so they can get it and put it back. Or ask a neighbor to roll it out to the curb and roll it back when it is empty. 

8. Leave a few lights on: If you are on a short vacation, leave a few lamps on to make it look occupied. For a longer vacation, have a neighbor turn on the lights in the evening and turn them off during the day. Or purchase automatic timers that can turn our lights on and off at intervals, making your house look occupied. If you have a home security service, let them know you will be gone. 

9. Move cars around in the driveway: Ask that your neighbors park a car in your driveway or give them the keys and have them rearrange your cars, so it looks like you are still there. 

10. Manicure the yard: Mow the lawn, clean up debris, and rake the leaves and other yard manicures so your home doesn’t look vacant. 

Enjoy your vacation by making sure your home is prepped and looks just like it does when you are there. You can have fun knowing that it is not an attraction for burglars and that it will look just like it did when you left. 

Lindquist Insurance has an experienced and licensed staff who can consult you on the best insurance coverage for you and your family. Call (301) 694-0008 for a consultation. We serve the Frederick, MD, and Annapolis, MD areas.