Leaving for the Weekend? Here’s a 10-Minute Home Safety Checklist Before You Lock the Door.

Whether you're heading to the lake, visiting family, or simply enjoying a weekend away, leaving home should feel exciting—not stressful. A few simple checks before you lock the door can help protect your home, reduce unnecessary surprises, and give you greater peace of mind while you're away.

Here's a quick 10-minute checklist to help you leave with confidence.

1. Test Your Smoke and Carbon Monoxide Alarms
   Smoke and carbon monoxide alarms are your home's first line of defense, but they're only effective if they're working properly.
   Before leaving, press the test button on each alarm to verify it's functioning correctly. If you use connected smart alarms, open your app and confirm every device is online and reporting normally.
   Pro Tip: If your alarms are more than 10 years old, it may be time to replace them.
    
2. Make Sure Your Garage Door Is Fully Closed
   It's surprisingly common to drive away wondering, "Did I close the garage?"
   Take a quick glance before leaving. If you have a smart garage door opener, verify its status remotely for extra peace of mind.
    
3. Lock Every Door and Window
   It sounds obvious, but rushing out the door makes it easy to overlook a side entrance, basement window, or patio door.
   A one-minute walkthrough can prevent a costly mistake.
   
   Walk your home one final time and confirm:
   • Front door
   • Back door
   • Garage entry door
   • Sliding doors
   • First-floor windows
      
4. Unplug Unnecessary Electronics
   Electronics that don't need to stay powered can be unplugged to reduce energy use and eliminate small electrical risks.
   Leave only essential devices connected.
   
   Consider unplugging:
   • Coffee makers
   • Toasters
   • Hair styling tools
   • Space heaters
   • Portable fans
      
5. Check Your Thermostat
   You don't need to cool or heat an empty home as much as an occupied one.
   Adjust your thermostat a few degrees to save energy while still protecting your home from excessive heat, humidity, or freezing temperatures.
    
6. Turn On Exterior Lighting
   A well-lit home appears occupied, even when it isn't. Use smart lighting scenes to create a natural occupancy pattern.
   
   If possible:
   • Set porch lights on a timer.
   • Schedule interior lights to turn on in the evening.
      
7. Verify Cameras and Smart Devices Are Online
   If you rely on connected devices, take a quick look before you leave.
   It's much easier to address a disconnected device before you're hours away.
   
   Confirm:
   • Cameras are online.
   • Motion alerts are enabled.
   • Smart locks are responding.
   • Your Wi-Fi is operating normally.
      
8. Take Out the Trash and Check Appliances
   Empty trash bins help prevent odors, while a quick appliance check reduces the chance of returning to an unpleasant surprise.
   
   Double-check:
   • Oven
   • Stove burners
   • Clothes iron
   • Washing machine
   • Dishwasher (if running)
      
9. Let Someone Know You're Away
   For longer trips, consider telling a trusted friend, family member, or neighbor.
   Sometimes the best security system is a watchful neighbor.
   
   They can:
   • Bring in packages.
   • Check on your home.
   • Alert you if something doesn't look right.
      
10. Enable Smart Notifications
    Technology can help you stay connected to your home, even from hundreds of miles away.
    Receiving an alert quickly allows you to respond faster or contact someone who can.
    
    Many modern smart home devices can notify you if:
    • Smoke or carbon monoxide is detected.
    • Motion is sensed.
    • A door is opened.
    • Indoor conditions change unexpectedly.

Leave Home with Confidence

Preparing your home before a weekend away doesn't take long, but it can make a big difference. A few minutes spent checking key safety items can help protect your property, your belongings, and the people who matter most.

At PLACE, we believe home safety should provide more than protection, it should provide peace of mind. Whether you're relaxing at home or enjoying a weekend away, connected safety technology helps you stay informed so you can focus on making memories instead of worrying about what's happening back home.

Have a safe weekend!