It’s time for summer! And it smells like vacation! But going away to relax, in France or abroad, doesn’t mean taking unnecessary risks.
Here are a few tips to avoid unpleasant surprises and return home with a clear head.
Several days before departure
- Let someone you trust (a family member, neighbor, etc.) know when you’re leaving, and give them a spare set of keys. This way, he or she will be able to “live” your home and deter any burglaries by collecting the mail, opening and closing the shutters, and so on.
- You can also take part in the“Tranquité vacances” operation offered by all the gendarmeries in France. By filling in an application form indicating your vacation dates, the police or gendarmerie can monitor your home during their daily patrols.
- Check all your reservations and make sure you have the receipts with you.
- If you’re going abroad, don’t forget to check the dates on your passport. It would be a shame to be refused access to a border because your passport has expired!
Day of departure
- Unplug your major electrical appliances to avoid any unexpected bills or short-circuits that could occur during a storm: dishwashers, TV sets, Internet boxes, etc.
- Check that all your water connections are shut off, and turn off your hot water tank. You can also turn off your gas supply if you have one.
- Keep your windows and all other entrances to your home (garage, etc.) tightly closed.
- Switch off your work computer and cell phone. It’s important to disconnect from work so you can enjoy your vacation to the full!
By following these tips, you should have the perfect vacation! But don’t forget, the key to a successful vacation is also good travel insurance!
