Thanksgiving Safety Tips Before Leaving Your Home

As you prepare to gather with loved ones for Thanksgiving, it’s important to make sure your home remains safe and secure during your trip. With a few simple preparations, you can enjoy your weekend holiday with peace of mind. From securing your home to preventing potential hazards, this guide will provide you with essential tips to safeguard your property and belongings.

Securing your home

Locking up tight

• Doors and Windows: Ensure all doors and windows, including those in basements and garages, are securely locked. Consider installing a smart lock like the August Smart Lock or Yale Assure Lock, which can be controlled remotely via your smartphone. These locks offer features like auto-lock and virtual keys, providing added convenience and security.
• Garage Doors: Close and lock your garage door, even if you’re parked inside. If you have a detached garage, consider disconnecting the garage door opener to prevent forced entry. Consider installing a smart garage door opener like the Chamberlain MyQ, which allows you to monitor and control your garage door remotely.
• Outdoor Lights: Install motion-sensor lights around your property to deter potential intruders. Timer switches can also be used to simulate occupancy, making your home appear lived-in. Consider using smart outdoor lights like the Philips Hue Outdoor Lighting, which can be controlled remotely and scheduled to turn on and off at specific times.
• Security Cameras: Consider installing security cameras to monitor your property while you’re away. Many modern security cameras offer remote viewing capabilities, allowing you to check on your home from anywhere. Consider using a smart security camera system like the Ring Alarm or Nest Cam, which offers features like motion detection, facial recognition, and two-way audio.

Valuables and privacy

• Secure Valuables: Avoid leaving valuables in plain sight. Use a safe or security box to store jewelry, cash, and important documents.
• Social Media Privacy: Resist the urge to share your travel plans on social media until after you return. Posting about your trip can alert potential intruders to your absence, making your home a target. It’s best to keep your travel plans private and avoid sharing them publicly.

Trusted neighbors and professional monitoring

Neighborly watch:

• Ask a trusted neighbor to keep an eye on your home while you’re away. They can report any suspicious activity to the authorities, such as:
  • Unfamiliar people loitering around your property
  • Strange vehicles parked near your home
  • Unusual noises coming from your house
  • Lights left on or off at unusual times
  • Packages piling up on your porch
  • Signs of forced entry, such as broken windows or damaged doors

Professional monitoring:

• Consider investing in a professional home security system with 24/7 monitoring. This can provide peace of mind knowing that your home is being protected by trained professionals. A professional monitoring service can detect signs of intrusion, such as a broken window or an open door, and dispatch authorities to your home immediately. This can help deter crime and protect your property.

Preventing potential hazards

Fire safety:

• Turn off appliances and electronics. Before leaving your home, turn off all appliances, including stoves, ovens, toasters, and coffee makers. Unplug electronics that aren’t essential, such as TVs, computers, and chargers.
• Disconnect holiday lights and decorations. Inspect holiday lights for any frayed wires or damaged cords before plugging them in. Once you’re done using them, unplug and store them properly.
• Check smoke detectors and carbon monoxide alarms. Test your smoke and carbon monoxide alarms to ensure they are working properly. Replace batteries as needed.
• Keep cooking areas clean. Clean up spills and grease immediately. Keep flammable materials, such as oven mitts, towels, and food packaging, away from heat sources.
• Never leave cooking unattended. Stay in the kitchen while cooking, and never leave food unattended on the stove or in the oven.
• Keep children and pets away from cooking areas. Set up a “kid-free zone” around the stove and other hot surfaces.
• Be careful with candles. Keep candles away from flammable materials and never leave them burning unattended.
• Have a fire extinguisher on hand. Make sure it’s easily accessible and that everyone in your household knows how to use it. We’ve also created a helpful guide on choosing the right fire extinguisher for your home.

Water damage:

• Turn off the main water supply, especially if you’ll be gone for an extended period. This can help prevent water damage in case of a leak or burst pipe.
• Check for any leaks or potential plumbing issues. Fix any leaks or drips before you leave.
• Drain outdoor faucets and shut off outdoor water supplies. This can help prevent pipes from freezing and bursting.

Pest control:

• Take steps to prevent pest infestations during your absence. Seal any cracks or gaps in your home’s foundation, walls, and doors.
• Store food properly. Store food in airtight containers to prevent attracting pests.
• Use traps or bait. Set traps or bait to catch any pests that may be present.

Additional tips from National Fire Protection Association (NFPA):

• Plan your menu carefully. Choose recipes that you can prepare safely and efficiently.
• Defrost your turkey safely. Thaw your turkey in the refrigerator, cold water, or microwave.
• Cook your turkey to the proper temperature. Use a food thermometer to ensure that your turkey is cooked to a safe internal temperature of 165°F.
• Store leftovers properly. Refrigerate leftovers promptly and discard any food that has been sitting out for more than two hours.

By following these simple yet effective tips, you can enjoy your Thanksgiving holiday with peace of mind, knowing that your home is safe and secure. Remember, a little preparation can go a long way in protecting your property and belongings. Happy Thanksgiving!

We can help plan your renovation

Find endless home renovation inspiration, detailed guides, and practical cost breakdowns from our blogs. You can also post your project on Sweeten today and get matched with our vetted general contractors and get estimates for free!