Many students are currently finishing exams and preparing to head home for the holidays. During the holiday season, robberies, burglaries, and thefts tend to increase. This past fall London had seen an increase in reports of burglaries that seemed to be targeting student houses. As you get ready to head home, you should keep these tips in mind to make sure that you don’t become a target this season.
When preparing to leave home, complete this check-list:
- Lock windows and doors.
- Unplug nonessential appliances and lamps.
- Valuables and holiday gifts should either be taken with you or you should place them out of view of windows and doors.
- Use an automatic timer for a couple lamps to make the house look occupied.
- Ask a neighbour or reach out to the landlord to encourage the use of the driveway and arrange shovelling of snow.
- Create an inventory of valuables so that if you do get robbed, you can provide this to the insurance company for compensation. It’s a good idea to take photos of these items (even if it’s them all in one photo) and serial numbers if possible.
- Turn down thermostat to save energy – even if you don’t pay utilities.
Renters Insurance
If you don’t already have renters insurance, also known as tenant insurance, you should consider getting it. Renters insurance might seem like something that is unnecessary, but did you know that if the place you are renting has a fire or other damage that is determined to be your fault then you can be held responsible to pay for the damages to the building, injuries to others, and any other associated costs.
If while you are home for the holidays and your place is robbed, you will not only not be reimbursed for your stolen items but if the residence is destroyed you might be out on the street with no money and nowhere else to go. Check out Allstate for more information on tenant insurance.
By following these simple tips, you will be able to leave your residence confidently knowing that everything will be safe and protected.