You don’t want to return home and find your home has been burglarized or you’ve had a plumbing leak or overflow and your home is flooded. These simple steps will greatly reduce the odds.

Make trustworthy neighbors aware that you’ll be gone and ask them to keep an eye out and pick up your newspapers.

Remember, when you post photos from the beach on social media, someone who admires your gun collection will know you’re away.

Motion sensor lighting is definitely a deterrent, both inside and outside.

Best option: Connect a cellular security and fire detection system that alerts a central station, as long as the expense works within your budget.   

If you have a water softener, turn it off. Things can go wrong when the system is discharging water (I have firsthand experience).

Remember, many water damage incidents are caused by supply lines to toilets, ice makers, and outside faucets. Any time you install new or have these serviced, double check a day or two later that all is working properly.  

Best option: Simply shut off the main water supply. If you do this you will want to make sure to turn off your water conditioner/softener.

Install or add to your smart home system water detection devices that will alert you if a leak is detected.

It is also a good idea to unplug small appliances such as toasters and coffee pots.

Need help?
Here’s Your go-to

Tony Porter
Tony Porter Agency, Inc
(573) 893-3088
2717 West Edgewood, JCMO
TonyPorterAgency.com