Table of Contents
- Enjoy your summer and keep your valuables protected
- Before you leave: Prep your home
- While you’re away: Stay secure
- Protect what matters most—even when you’re away
Enjoy your summer and keep your valuables protected
Summer is the season for BBQs, beach getaways, road trips, and long weekends. But while you’re out making memories, your home can be left vulnerable to theft, accidents, or damage. With people working shorter weeks and leaving town earlier, thieves have more opportunities to target empty homes. Protect valuables this summer by taking a few simple steps before you head out.
Valuables and Collections coverage can provide you with customized protection for items in your home such as stamp collections, electronics or even sports equipment
Before you leave: Prep your home
Mail deliveries: Cancel regular deliveries like newspapers or parcels to avoid drawing attention to an empty home. Canada Post offers a Hold Mail service that can pause mail delivery while you’re away.
Lights and electronics: Motion lights or timers can create the appearance that someone is home. A smart lighting system gives you full remote control, even while on vacation.
Outdoor maintenance: In warmer months, uncut grass or wilted gardens signal no one is home. In winter, snow and ice build-up can pose both a security and liability risk. Hire a service or ask a friend to handle outdoor tasks like trimming, watering, or snow removal.
Heat and water: If you’re heading out during colder months, set your thermostat no lower than 16°C to prevent frozen pipes. Turn off your water main and drain your faucets to avoid water damage.
Lock up: Summer heat or last-minute packing can lead to forgotten open windows or doors. Do a full walk-through before leaving to ensure everything is securely locked.
While you’re away: Stay secure
Social media: Avoid “checking in” or posting vacation updates until after you return. Sharing plans in real time gives others a clear timeline of when your house is unattended.
Smart home security system: A smart home setup allows you to monitor activity and contact emergency services if needed. If your system is professionally monitored, notify your provider of your trip and how long you’ll be away.
House sitter: Having a trusted friend, neighbour, or family member check in on your home can deter thieves and help maintain the property. They can water plants, feed pets, collect flyers, and clear snow or cut the grass.
Protect what matters most—even when you’re away
And finally, make sure your insurance coverage is up to date. Cataloging your valuables and keeping receipts will make it easier to recover costs if items are lost or stolen.
Unica offers extra coverage to protect your valuables this summer—whether they’re coming with you or staying behind. Our Valuables and Collections coverage provides customized protection for items like stamp collections, electronics, memorabilia, or sports gear, including your children’s athletic equipment.
Contact your Broker to learn more and travel with peace of mind.
