Relaxed on your winter holiday - how to keep your home protected
The cold weather is dampening the mood and the longing for cosy winter evenings or a relaxing holiday is growing. 🌨️ Perhaps you are planning to spend the Christmas period in a snowy and idyllic snow resort, or take advantage of the days off to treat yourself to a well-deserved break. However, at a time when many people are travelling, one important question remains unanswered: How can homeowners ensure that their home is protected while they are away?
Especially in the colder months, it is important to think not only about the security of your home, but also about possible risks that may arise due to weather conditions or burglaries. An extended holiday often means that the house is unoccupied - a situation that can attract potential burglars. Similarly, frost and sub-zero temperatures can cause damage to pipes or heating systems if precautions are not taken.
Good preparation is the key to a relaxed start to your holiday. This includes ensuring that doors and windows are well secured and alarm systems are in working order. Installing timers for lights can also be helpful to give the impression that someone is at home. In addition, homeowners should ensure that the heating remains set to a frost protection level to prevent damage from frozen pipes.
Another important measure is to communicate with neighbours or friends who can keep an eye on the house while you are away. Regular visits or emptying the letterbox help to keep the home secure and reinforce the impression of presence.
With these tips, you can enjoy your time in the snow with peace of mind and be sure that your home will be in perfect condition when you return. After all, your winter holiday should provide relaxation and wonderful memories - without any unwanted surprises at home.
Protection against burglars - the most important measures
Christmas time is also the peak season for burglars. But that shouldn't be a reason to cancel your holiday. A few simple precautions will keep your home safe:
- Social networks: Avoid public posts about your absence. Holiday pictures should only be visible to friends.
- Letterbox: Ask neighbours to empty it regularly to avoid overflowing mail.
- Valuables: Hide valuables in safe places and avoid visible clues.
- Roller shutters: Have them opened and closed regularly, either by neighbours or with timers.
- Light: Use smart lamps to simulate presence or ask neighbours to switch the light on occasionally.
Save electricity while on holiday
To avoid unnecessary electricity costs, unplug electrical appliances that are not needed. Appliances in stand-by mode can cost up to 40 euros during a two-week holiday. Also: Leave the dishwasher slightly open to prevent mould from forming.
Heating and ventilation on winter holiday
Switching off the heating completely can be counterproductive. To prevent frost and mould:
- Maintain a low but constant heating temperature.
- Ask friends or neighbours to occasionally turn up the heating and air the room.
- Remember: proper heating also includes regular ventilation.
