3. Hold the newspaper, mail and packages
Be sure to put a hold on your newspaper and
mail, and don’t forget about packages. Request a
vacation hold from FedEx, hold your U.S. mail
and request a hold from UPS.
4. Know which items to keep hidden
If you store a ladder outside, lock it with a
chain or cable so no one can use it to break into
your house, Clement says. If you have a hide-akey, bring it inside your house. Check your house
from the sidewalk and street to make sure no
valuables are visible from the windows.
5. Change your privacy settings
Be careful what you share on social media.
Change your privacy settings so you are only
sharing posts with friends or, better yet, wait until
you return home to post photos from your trip.
If you do choose to post photos on social media,
disable the GPS on your phone so it doesn’t show
your location. If you park your car at the airport,
don’t leave a portable GPS device visible on the
dashboard or seat, or better yet, take it with you.
That device could easily lead robbers back to your
unattended house.
to ensure the pipes don’t freeze while you’re gone.
Follow these simple steps prior to traveling
to deter the attention of robbers. You should
also make sure you have the right homeowners
insurance to protect your property and valuables.
Learn more about different homeowners coverage
at www.nationwide.com.
NOTICE!
Oil & Gas Royalty
Owners 201
ANNUAL MEETING!
NARO - Appalachian Chapter
National Association of Royalty Owners
Speakers, Networking, Fun!
The Greenbrier Hotel Resort
2FWREHU1RYHPEHU, 201
1-800-558-0557 Toll Free
6. Ensure everything is locked and secure
Make sure all doors and windows, even secondfloor windows, are locked. If you have a garage
with a connecting door, make sure it’s locked. If
you have an automatic garage door, unplug the
power to prevent robbers from using a universal
remote to gain access. If you have a sliding glass
door, secure it by putting a metal rod or piece of
plywood into the track. Put all your valuables in a
fireproof safe and, if you have a security system,
let the company know you will be out of town.
7. Safeguard your house
In addition to taking steps to prevent burglars,
it’s a good idea to take steps to prevent a fire or
flood in your home while you’re gone. Unplug all
appliances and turn the thermostat up or down a
bit, depending on the season. If it’s winter, keep
the temperature at 55 degrees; if it’s summer, 80
degrees. If you’re traveling in the winter, make
sure your pipes are well insulated and consider
asking a neighbor to turn on your faucets every day
Sign up at Farm2Ranch.com
and place your free classified ad,
visit the business directory,
check out news & so much more.
If you’re a West Virginia Farm Bureau Member
register for your FREE classified ad with a FREE photo!
www.Farm2Ranch.com
West Virginia Farm Bureau News 7