Greetings! As the season transitions, many of you are preparing to return to your northern residence, if you haven’t already. Before you embark on your journey, we’ve curated an updated safe home checklist to ensure your peace of mind while away. If you’ve already departed and require assistance with any tasks, please don’t hesitate to reach out.
- Set the thermostat to 76-77 degrees for optimal energy efficiency, and maintain Humidistat settings if applicable.
- Turn off the water heater circuit breaker.
- Opt for a WIFI thermostat for remote temperature and humidity monitoring.
- Open lower cabinet doors under sinks.
- Prop open the dishwasher door.
- Securely close and lock all windows.
- Dispose of waste and recyclables from bins.
- Empty and turn off the refrigerator/freezer ice maker.
- Forward your mail through forms available at the local post office or online.
- Prop open the washing machine door.
- Reverse ceiling fans to circulate air upwards.
- Securely close and lock all doors, verifying their security physically.
- Use a trickle charger/battery maintainer for vehicles, considering a surge protector outlet.
- Preserve toilet water with plastic wrap covering the bowl.
- Replace batteries in various devices and detectors.
- Open doors to all rooms and closets.
- Clear your lanai and close hurricane shutters if available.
- Shut off the main water supply to your unit, ensuring careful handling to avoid damaging the pipes.
- Consider surge protection installation by a licensed electrician.
- Remove personal items from outside your home.
- Unplug all appliances – including electronics like TVs and computers.
- Install or activate motion-activated lights near entrances
- Have trees near house trimmed and gutters cleaned.
Hurricane Preparedness for our Coastal Residents
As you embark on your summer journey, it’s crucial to prepare your home for hurricane season. Here are essential steps to ensure your safety and minimize potential damage:
- Secure Outdoor Items: Store lawn ornaments, patio furniture, grills, and any potential projectiles indoors or in the garage.
- Terrace Home Considerations: If you reside in a terrace home, condo, coach home, or villa, bring in or secure any items left on the lanai to prevent them from becoming hazards in strong winds.
- Secure Hurricane Shutters: Close your hurricane shutters if you have them installed, or coordinate with us to put them up or close them before the arrival of a potential hurricane. Being prepared in advance is key to ensuring your home’s safety during tropical storms or hurricanes.
Ensure Your Home is Safe & Secure
Ensure your home’s safety and functionality with this comprehensive checklist as you embark on your seasonal journey. If you need assistance with any of these tasks and want to learn about our home watch services in Greenville, Asheville, Bluffton or Charleston, reach out to Dillard-Jones Renovations + Service at 864-326-3133. Safe travels!
