Going away? Do these things first!
Finding time away from home, from work (even from the family) is usually a very rare occurrence – for me at any rate! Whether you’re visiting relatives, maybe heading into hospital for a few days for an operation, going on holiday or just enjoying a nice weekend away with your other half – it’s important to make sure that everything is tied up at home, so you can relax and enjoy your time away from home without any niggling feelings or concerns about what you may be coming home to!
So here, you’ll find a helpful list of things you should do before you step out of the door and leave the chaos behind!
The pets
We’re a nation of pet lovers, and from the moment we approach a breeder like Douglas Hall Kennels, or our local rescue centers and bring our furry friend home for the first time, they quickly become part of the family. So, if you’re going away on holiday, you’ll need somewhere for them to stay that’s safe, secure and enjoyable too!
Many of us ask close friends or family to pitch in and help look after our pets while we’re away, but sometimes – it’s just as easy to allow the professionals to take care of your pet. You may not be happy with a friend simply, “popping in” to feed the fish or make sure the cat hasn’t missed the litter tray so, get in touch with a local kennels or cattery to see what options are available.
Your plugs and sockets
Before you leave for a few days – it’s always important to remember to switch off all those unneeded outlets. Make sure you leave your fridge and freezer on of course! But make sure things like your TV, the hairdryer, lights, the microwave, kettle and the toaster are switched off at the sockets. This is not only a wave to save energy while you’re away and will help with those ever-rising energy bills – but it also reduces the risk of fire!
Put the bins out!
If you’re going away for more than a week, or you’re due to return in the middle of the night and it falls on or around bin day, then make sure you pull the bin to the curb before you go away! This may sound pedantic, but trust me! There’s nothing worse than returning from a long journey and waking up in the morning to the sound of the bin lorry heading down the street! Or having to balance everything in the overflowing bin for another week…you can thank me later!
Let the neighbors know
If you’re going away for a week or so, and you get on well with your neighbors, let them know that you’re not going to be home, give them a spare key and ask if they can keep an eye on your property while you’re gone. This is an excellent burglar deterrent and also if there’s something like a power cut – your neighbors can take steps to make sure things like your freezer isn’t leaking all over the place!