Preparing your home for vacation: The benefits of smart home technology
4 Minute Read
Your bags are packed, your tickets are booked, and your dream vacation is just around the corner. But what about your home?
Preparing your home for vacation doesn't have to be a chore, especially with smart home technology on your side. Not only can it protect your property while you are away, but it can also help you save on your home insurance premiums when you have professionally installed and monitored alarm systems.
Here is how to combine the tried-and-true tips to keep your home safe while you enjoy your time away on your dream vacation.
What is a smart home?
A smart home is like having a personal assistant for your house. It often begins with a smart home hub, such as Google Home or Alexa, which connects to other devices like thermostats, lights, and security cameras that you can control remotely. These hubs allow you to control devices through an app, voice commands, scheduled routines, or programmed triggers—such as a light turning on when movement is detected.
Want the lights to turn on at night, so people think you're home? Set up a scheduled routine to turn them on at sunset and off at sunrise. Coming back from a long vacation and want a cozy home? Program the thermostat to warm things up.
Smart homes don't just make life easier-they make it safer and more efficient. From motion sensors that keep intruders away to fridges that save energy while on vacation, smart technology can help keep your home running smoothly.
Safety and security
One of the most appealing aspects of smart technology is how it enhances home security. With real-time alerts and 24/7 and remote access monitoring, smart systems can help protect homes from unexpected events like floods, fires, or even break-ins.
Locally monitored alarm systems are essential for keeping your home safe. These systems detect issues such as fires, carbon monoxide, water leaks or break-ins and send alerts directly to your phone.
Whether at work, running errands or on vacation, you'll know if something is wrong at home.
Centrally monitored alarm systems take safety a step further by connecting to a professional monitoring service. These services will monitor your home 24/7 and alert the authorities if a fire, flood or break-in occurs.
This type of system is beneficial during emergencies where you might not be able to respond personally.
Adding security cameras to your system enhances your home's protection. With cameras, you're alerted to threats in real-time and can also monitor your home remotely.
A single doorbell camera can help protect your packages from porch pirates, while multiple cameras can help identify intruders or provide evidence in case of a break-in.
Other tips for keeping your home safe while away
Even with technology on your side, a few extra precautions can go a long way in helping keep your home safe while you're away.
Start by asking a trusted friend or family member to check in on your house regularly. They can clear snow, collect mail and water your plants, making your home look lived in. This can help deter potential burglars if they know people are at your house.
Before you leave, take a moment to secure all windows and doors. Double-check locks on less apparent spots like basement windows, side doors and garage entrances. This simple step can make a big difference in keeping your home protected.
To level up your security, consider adding extra home features like doorbell cameras and custom alerts. These tools allow you to monitor your home in real-time and help deter potential burglars. For an added effect, remotely turn on your television or lights occasionally to create the illusion that someone is home.
Lastly, turn off your main water valve to prevent leaks and adjust your thermostat to a safe temperature to avoid frozen pipes in the winter. For additional coverage, consider CAA Service Line Coverage1, which helps protect you from damage to underground service lines, wiring, and valves, covering repair costs and damage to outdoor property from line failures.
Why safety equals savings
With CAA Insurance, installing and using a home security system with monitored burglar and fire alarms can help you save up to 10 per cent on your home insurance costs.
Along with ensuring your home remains secure while you’re away, it’s important to prioritize your own safety as well.
CAA Travel insurance3 offers coverage for unexpected events like trip cancellations, medical emergencies or lost luggage.
The smart choice
Investing in smart home technology isn't just about keeping up with the latest trends—it's about protecting your home, simplifying your life, and saving money. By combining smart home technology with simple precautions, you can help keep your home safe and secure while you enjoy your vacation.
Not only will you feel confident about your home's safety, but you could also see savings on your home insurance premiums. You can relax on your next holiday with the right blend of technology and preparation.
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Underwritten by CAA Insurance Company, Claims administered by CAA Insurance Company.
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Property Insurance is underwritten by CAA Insurance Company. Certain conditions, limitations and underwriting guidelines apply.
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CAA Travel Insurance, an Orion Travel Insurance product, is underwritten by Echelon Insurance. Certain exclusions, limitations and restrictions apply. Subject to change without notice. A Medical Questionnaire is required if you are 60 years of age and older.
®/™ CAA trademarks are owned by, and use is authorized by, the Canadian Automobile Association.
