Tips for snow birds.

Good Neighbor Tips from Erin Doan, State Farm Insurance, Scottville, www.erindoan.com.

Leaving town in search of sunny skies and warmer temperatures? Learn how to protect your home so you can enjoy your winter away without worrying about what you left behind.

Prevent Break-Ins

An empty house is an easy target for burglars. Help keep your home untouched:

• Install secure locks on all windows and doors.
• Install bright outdoor lights and time them to turn on at sundown.
• Cancel or transfer your mail service to avoid a pile-up.
• Put indoor lights on random timers to create the appearance of an active household.
• Ask a trusted neighbor to monitor your property while you’re away and to inform you about suspicious activity.
• Consider a mobile security app. Some apps connect to your home security system and alert you of changes. Others connect your mobile phone with a security camera or webcam to provide remote surveillance. Learn about special offers available to State Farm® customers through ADT^® and Lowe’s^®.

Prevent Damage from the Elements

You can ward off the following problems with a little preparation.

• Frozen Pipes: Use heat tape or heat cables and keep the thermostat set at 55 degrees or above. Some thermostats offer remote control so you can check and change your home’s temperature while you’re away.

  Install a leak detection system near a water line as a precaution for burst pipes. The system can connect with your mobile phone to alert you of standing water. You can then schedule service from afar. This helpful guide has more tips for preventing water damage in your home.

• Excessive Snow: Cut down any dead limbs or trees near your house that could fall under heavy snow or ice. Hire a snow removal service to take care of your sidewalk and driveway.
• Pests: Throw out any food not in an airtight metal or glass container. Then empty, clean and defrost your refrigerator and freezer. Also circle your home’s foundation, inside and out, and seal any openings.

Get more tips for winterizing your home here.

The information in this article was obtained from various sources. While we believe it to be reliable and accurate, we do not warrant the accuracy or reliability of the information. These suggestions are not a complete list of every loss-control measure. The information is not intended to replace manuals or instructions provided by the manufacturer or the advice of a qualified professional. Nor is it intended to effect coverage under any policy. State Farm makes no guarantees of results from use of this information. We assume no liability in connection with the information nor the suggestions made.

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