Heading Out on Vacation?
Here Are 7 Tips to Protect Your Home While You're Away

7 Tips to Protect Your Home While On VacationVacations are meant for relaxation—not unexpected disasters back home. At MacFawn Fire and Flood Restoration, we’ve seen what can go wrong when homes are left unattended for days or weeks at a time. Whether it’s water damage from a burst pipe, an electrical issue, or an unnoticed mold problem, taking a few simple precautions before you leave can make all the difference.

Here are our top tips to protect your home while you’re away:

1. Turn Off the Main Water Supply
A small leak can become a big problem fast. Shutting off your main water valve prevents issues like burst pipes, leaking appliances, or a malfunctioning water heater from causing serious damage.
2. Unplug Unnecessary Appliances
Not only does this help prevent electrical fires, but it also saves on energy. Unplug toasters, coffee makers, TVs, and any other non-essential electronics.
3. Set Your Thermostat Wisely
Keep your HVAC running, but adjust the temperature for efficiency and safety. In the summer, set your AC a bit higher to reduce humidity (which helps prevent mold); in the winter, keep it warm enough to prevent frozen pipes.
4. Check All Windows and Doors
Do a full walk-through before you leave. Make sure all entry points are securely locked, including basement windows and garage doors.
5. Ask a Neighbor or Friend to Check In
Having someone you trust stop by every few days can catch early warning signs of trouble—like leaks, smells, or temperature changes.
6. Don’t Announce Your Absence Publicly
As tempting as it is to post vacation photos in real time, it’s best to wait until you’re back. Publicly sharing that your home is empty can attract unwanted attention.

Bonus Tip: Invest in Leak Detectors or a Smart Home Monitoring System
These systems can alert you in real-time to water leaks, smoke, or changes in temperature, giving you peace of mind no matter how far from home you are.

At MacFawn Fire and Flood Restoration, we’re here for you when the unexpected happens—but we’re also big believers in prevention. A few simple steps before your next getaway can save you from a major headache when you return.

Safe travels—and remember, if disaster does strike, we’re just a call away.