Home Safety Checks Before Leaving for Holiday Travel

Holiday travel brings a welcome break from routine, but leaving your home unattended during winter requires more planning than most people expect. Cold weather, potential storms, and basic security concerns can create real risks if your home is not prepared. A few simple steps can save money, prevent damage, and give you more confidence during your time away.

Homes throughout Beverly, Mt. Greenwood, Oak Lawn, Evergreen Park, and the surrounding suburbs can face harsh conditions in December and January. Preparing your home before you leave helps prevent winter complications and supports a smoother return once your trip ends. Here are the checks that matter most.

Keep Your Home at a Safe Temperature

Thermostat settings are one of the most important factors when preparing a home for cold weather travel. Never set your thermostat lower than 55 degrees. Colder temperatures increase the risk of frozen pipes, which can burst and cause costly damage before anyone notices.

If you have a smart thermostat, switch it to away mode or set a simple schedule that maintains a consistent temperature. Smart devices also let you check on your home remotely, which adds peace of mind and helps you catch issues early.

Secure All Doors and Windows

Before leaving, walk through your home and check every lock. Ensure exterior doors close tightly, windows latch securely, and sliding doors are reinforced with a bar or dowel if needed. Close blinds or curtains in a natural-looking way. You want your home to appear occupied without drawing attention.

If you use a security system, make sure it is armed and working. Test your cameras, confirm that notifications are functioning, and verify that your Wi-Fi connection is stable enough to support remote monitoring.

Unplug Non-Essential Appliances

Small appliances can cause electrical issues when left plugged in for long periods. Before leaving, unplug items like coffee makers, toasters, lamps, televisions, and chargers. This reduces fire risk and cuts down on energy usage.

You can leave essential devices plugged in, such as your refrigerator or smart-home equipment, but disconnect anything that does not need to run while you are away.

Reduce Water-Related Risks

Water damage can escalate quickly, especially in winter. If you plan to be away for more than a few days, consider turning off your main water supply. This simple step prevents leaks and frozen pipes from causing major problems while no one is home.

If shutting off the main supply is not practical, turn off water to the washing machine, dishwasher, and any sink or hose bib that could freeze. Open cabinet doors under kitchen and bathroom sinks to help warm air circulate around the pipes. These precautions help protect plumbing in older homes, which are common throughout Chicago neighborhoods.

Arrange for Snow and Ice Management

Winter travel often brings weather uncertainties. If you live in an area that sees regular snowfall, arrange for someone to plow or shovel your driveway and walkways. A snow-covered property can signal to others that no one is home, and some HOAs and municipalities have rules requiring timely snow removal.

Clearing snow also prevents ice from forming near entryways, which reduces the chance of slips and falls for anyone checking on your home.

Ask a Trusted Neighbor to Check In

A quick exterior check once or twice while you are away goes a long way. Ask a neighbor, friend, or family member to stop by and look for anything out of place. A simple walk-around can reveal early signs of issues such as leaks, damaged gutters, broken windows, or unexpected packages.

If you receive regular deliveries, pause them or reroute items to a locker or family member’s home. Packages left outside can attract unwanted attention.

Handle Basic Home Tasks Before Leaving

Take a few minutes to complete routine tasks that help your home stay safe and clean while you are gone. Check smoke detectors and carbon monoxide detectors, empty all trash cans, and secure outdoor furniture that could shift in strong winds. Store vehicles in a garage if possible or park them in well-lit areas.

If you have plants, water them lightly before leaving or ask someone to check on them. Small details like these make returning home more pleasant and protect your property from unnecessary wear.

Prepare for a Smooth Return

Coming home after holiday travel should feel restful, not stressful. By taking care of these safety steps before you leave, you reduce the chances of dealing with repairs or emergencies when you return. Winter is unpredictable throughout Chicagoland, but preparation helps protect your home from cold-weather risks.

If you plan to sell in the spring, these steps also ensure your home remains in great condition. A well-maintained property makes photography, showings, and staging much easier once the real estate market starts to move again.

The team at Dorazio Real Estate is always available if you have questions about winter home care or early preparation for the spring selling season. Homes that stay protected and well maintained show better and create a stronger first impression once buyers begin their search.