• Have a trusted house-sitter or hire a professional service to monitor your property and respond quickly in an emergency. 
• Install a security system with alarms, cameras, and security doors for extra protection when you're away. 
• Have a plan ready in case of emergencies, such as being locked out, power outages, or fires. 
• Keep emergency supplies, such as flashlights and candles, in case of a power outage. 

You may have tried your best to prepare for emergencies in your home, but what happens when you're away? Having an emergency occur on vacation or at work can be stressful and unsettling. However, there are steps you can take to help prevent and handle home emergencies while you're away. Here are some tips and tricks to ensure your home stays safe and secure even when you're not there.

Set Up a House-Sitter

One of the best ways to ensure that your home stays safe when you're away is by having someone house-sit for you. Before you leave, ask a trusted friend or family member to stay at your home while you're gone.

Having someone there can help deter burglars and other criminals from targeting your home. They can also keep an eye on things and alert you if an emergency does occur. If you can't find someone to babysit, consider hiring a professional service. A house-sitter can do the following:

Monitor the Property

One of the best ways a house-sitter can help protect your home is by watching the property. They can watch for suspicious activity and alert you if something seems off. They can also check to ensure all doors, windows, and other entry points are closed and locked before leaving the house each day.

Turn Lights on and Off

It may seem small, but having someone turn your lights on and off while you're away can deter criminals. Turning the lights on in the evening and off in the morning will make it look like someone is home and help keep intruders away. Especially when you'll be away for more than a few days, having someone check in regularly can help keep your home safe.

Respond Quickly in Case of an Emergency

Having a house-sitter is the best way to handle emergencies while you're away. If a fire breaks out or a pipe bursts, your house-sitter can respond quickly and alert the necessary authorities. They can also take measures to mitigate any damages that may have occurred before help arrives.

Install a Security System

A security system can be a great investment for your home, especially if you travel frequently. A good system can detect movement and other disturbances, alerting authorities or the security company monitoring your home. Some advanced security systems even allow you to access your cameras or alarms through your smartphone or tablet, so you can keep an eye on your home no matter where you are. Here are some security systems that you can consider:

Alarm Systems

An alarm system can be connected to sensors that detect motion and determine whether or not someone is in the house. When triggered, it can alert you or the authorities with a loud sound to scare off intruders.

Cameras

Installing cameras around your home can help deter burglars, as most criminals don't want to be seen on camera. You can also access the cameras remotely to monitor your home and ensure everything is alright.

Security Doors

Installing security doors can also help protect your home from burglars and intruders. Most security doors are designed to be heavy-duty and tamper-proof, making it difficult for criminals to break in.

Have a Plan

It's important to have a plan in case an emergency does occur. This includes knowing where your shut-off valves and other key systems are and having emergency supplies on hand. Ensure your house-sitter or other trusted friend or family member knows about the plan and can carry it out if necessary. Here are other emergencies you should have a plan for:

Getting Locked Out

Imagine returning from a vacation only to discover you've been locked out of your home. Have your trusted locksmith on speed dial. They will be able to quickly reset your locks so that you can safely enter your home. Using their special tools, they can also open the door without causing any damage.

Power Outages

If the power goes out while you're away, your house-sitter should know how to handle it. Ensure they know where the breaker box is and how to reset any circuit breakers. Additionally, keep flashlights and candles on hand in case of a power outage. It is also advisable to have a backup generator ready if the power is out for an extended period.

Fire Emergencies

No one wants to think about a fire in their home, but an evacuation plan is crucial. Ensure your house-sitter knows what to do in case of a fire, including where the closest exit is and how to shut off any gas or electricity. Having a fire extinguisher nearby is also important as teaching your house-sitter how to use it in an emergency.

Being away from home can be stressful, but these tips and tricks can help you handle emergencies. With the right preparation and measures, you'll be able to enjoy your time away without worrying about what's happening at home.