Calderon Insurance Agency Blog

Phishing Emails, Ransomware, and Liability: A Business Owner’s Cyber Checklist

Wed, 31 Dec 2025 06:00:00 GMT

Cyber threats have become an everyday risk for businesses of all sizes, not just large corporations. In fact, small and mid-sized businesses are increasingly targeted by cybercriminals because they often lack dedicated security infrastructure. Phishing emails, ransomware attacks, and data breaches can shut down operations, compromise sensitive information, and expose your business to legal liability.

Even with basic antivirus protection and IT support in place, your business may still be vulnerable if you don't fully understand your exposure. It’s important to evaluate how these risks could impact your operations and whether your current insurance policy offers sufficient support if something goes wrong.

Understanding the Threat Landscape

Phishing emails remain one of the most common ways attackers gain access to business systems. These emails often appear to come from trusted sources, such as suppliers, customers, or even internal team members, and contain a malicious link or attachment. When the recipient clicks the malicious link or opens the infected file, the attacker can gain access to the network, install malware, or steal sensitive credentials.

Ransomware attacks, another growing threat, involve malicious software that locks your data until a ransom is paid. These incidents can bring business operations to a standstill. Even if you recover access, the aftermath can involve legal fees, reputational damage, and regulatory penalties, especially if customer data was exposed in the process.

What Cyber Liability Insurance Can Do

Cyber liability insurance can help with the financial and operational fallout from a cyber event. A well-structured policy may help pay for incurred costs, regulatory fines, customer notification efforts, and the expense of restoring data and systems. It may also cover reputational management services and some costs associated with investigating how the attack occurred.

Having this coverage in place won’t prevent an attack, but it can help play a critical role in your recovery, especially when facing lost income, reputational damage, or third-party claims.

Steps You Can Take Right Now

To reduce your risk, start by training employees on how to recognize suspicious emails, links, and attachments. Implement strong password protocols and enable multi-factor authentication wherever possible. Regularly back up your data in a secure, off-site location or cloud environment, and ensure backups are tested and accessible. Keep all operating systems, software, and security tools updated to address known vulnerabilities.

It’s also wise to review your cyber liability coverage annually or anytime your business introduces new digital systems, stores more customer data, or expands online operations. The more connected your business becomes, the more important it is to align your protection with your digital exposure.

Prepare Now, Not After an Attack

Cyber threats continue to evolve, and no business is immune. Being proactive with cybersecurity best practices and having the right insurance coverage can make all the difference when something goes wrong. Contact us today to review your cyber liability insurance and make sure your business is prepared for the risks that come with doing business in a connected world.

How to Insure a Travel Trailer or Camper for the Off-Season

Wed, 24 Dec 2025 06:00:00 GMT

For many RV and travel trailer owners, the fall and winter months bring road trips to a pause. Whether you store your camper in a garage, on your property, or at a designated facility, it's important to make sure your insurance coverage adjusts with the change in season.

Even when your travel trailer isn’t on the road, it’s still at risk for theft, weather damage, vandalism, and more. Here's what you should know about insuring your trailer or camper when it’s parked for the off-season.

Don’t Cancel Your Policy Entirely

It might seem like a good idea to cancel your RV insurance during the months you're not using it, especially if you're trying to cut costs, but this can leave you financially vulnerable if your trailer is damaged, stolen, or causes harm while in storage. Most insurance providers recommend keeping coverage in place year-round, but possibly adjusting it during the off-season.

Some carriers may offer “storage-only” or “comprehensive-only” coverage. This option drops liability and collision coverage (which are only needed while driving) but retains protection against non-driving risks like fire, theft, falling objects, or weather-related damage.

Understand Your Storage Location Risks

Where and how you store your camper or trailer matters. An enclosed, climate-controlled facility offers more protection than a driveway or open lot, but even in ideal storage conditions, risks remain. Rodents, storms, or even a fallen tree can lead to costly repairs. If your trailer is stored off-site, be sure your carrier knows the location, as some RV insurance policies have location-based requirements for off-season coverage to remain valid.

Check Your Personal Property Limits

If you leave valuables like electronics, tools, or gear inside your RV or trailer during storage, make sure your policy covers personal belongings. In some cases, your homeowner insurance or renters insurance may extend some coverage, but this isn't always guaranteed. A conversation with your agent can help you understand what’s included and whether additional protection is needed.

Update Your Coverage Before Hitting the Road Again

Before spring hits and you're ready to travel again, don’t forget to restore your full coverage, including liability and collision, so you're road-legal and protected. Updating your policy takes just a few minutes, and it ensures you're covered from the moment you drive away.

Your camper or trailer may be parked, but that doesn’t mean it’s risk-free. Adjusting your coverage for the off-season can save money while still protecting your investment. Contact us today to review your insurance coverage and make sure you're covered, whether you're on the road or in storage.

Keeping Your Commercial Property Prepared for Severe Weather

Wed, 17 Dec 2025 06:00:00 GMT

Severe weather events like hurricanes, snowstorms, wildfires, hailstorms, or heavy rain can cause major damage to commercial properties and disrupt business operations. For property owners, facility managers, and tenants alike, being prepared ahead of time is key to minimizing risk and recovering more quickly if something goes wrong. Here are some steps you can take toward keeping your commercial property prepared for severe weather and helping ensure your commercial insurance coverage aligns with the potential risks.

Inspect and Maintain the Building Exterior and Interior

Start with the basics: your roof, siding, windows, and doors. These are your first line of defense against wind, rain, and flying debris. Make sure roofing materials are secure, gutters and drains are clear of debris, and windows are properly sealed. Reinforce doors, especially roll-up or glass entry doors, which are more vulnerable in high-wind events. If your property includes signage, fencing, or exterior lighting, ensure these elements are anchored firmly. Even small, loose items can become dangerous projectiles in a windstorm.

Trim trees and remove dead limbs around the building that could fall in high winds or under heavy snow. Secure loose outdoor furniture, dumpsters, pallets, or equipment that could shift or blow away. If flooding is a concern in your area and heavy rain is in the forecast, install sandbags, barriers, or water diversion systems near entry points. Be sure any exterior drainage systems are working properly and not blocked by landscaping or debris.

Protect Equipment and Interior Assets

Move sensitive equipment, electronics, and inventory away from windows or ground-level areas that could flood. If you have the option, store high-value items on higher floors or on raised platforms. Install surge protectors or backup power systems to protect against outages. For businesses with critical systems (like servers, refrigeration, or manufacturing equipment), having a power loss contingency plan is essential. This could include battery backups, generators, or pre-arranged service from emergency contractors.

Review Your Emergency Response Plan

Every commercial property should have an up-to-date emergency plan that outlines evacuation procedures, shutoff locations for utilities, key contacts, and roles for building staff or tenants. Share the plan with all occupants, and conduct seasonal reviews or drills to keep everyone informed and ready.

If your building has multiple tenants, coordinate with the others to ensure their emergency actions don’t conflict with yours, especially in shared areas like lobbies, elevators, or garages.

Check Your Insurance Coverage Before the Storm Hits

Severe weather often exposes gaps in insurance policies. Review your commercial property insurance to confirm your current limits, deductibles, and exclusions. Pay special attention to coverage for wind, hail, water damage, and business interruption. If your building is in a flood-prone area, remember that not all commercial property insurance policies cover flood damage. You may need to secure separate flood insurance to fill that gap.

A few proactive steps today can help prevent major losses tomorrow, and may even improve your chances of a smooth insurance claims process if something does go wrong. Contact us today for a commercial property insurance review and make sure your coverage aligns with the risks your property faces year-round.

What Every Homeowner Should Know About Their Utility Shutoffs

Wed, 10 Dec 2025 06:00:00 GMT

Owning a home means taking on a wide range of responsibilities, from mortgage payments to seasonal maintenance. One of the most critical, and commonly overlooked, areas of home safety is knowing how and when to shut off your utilities. In a moment of crisis, like a burst pipe or suspected gas leak, acting fast can limit damage, reduce repair costs, and keep you and your family safe.

Yet many homeowners don’t know where their shutoffs are located, or how to use them properly. This basic knowledge can make all the difference during emergencies, and even support a smoother insurance claims process if damage does occur.

Water Shutoff Valve

Your home’s main water shutoff valve is one of the most important things to locate after moving in. In the event of a burst pipe, overflowing toilet, or leaking appliance, shutting off the water quickly can help prevent thousands of dollars in damage. Most main shutoff valves are located where the water line enters your home, typically in the basement, garage, or a utility closet.

Make sure the valve turns easily and isn’t rusted or stuck. In addition to the main valve, many sinks, toilets, and appliances have their own smaller shutoff valves that let you isolate a single fixture. This can come in handy for minor repairs or localized issues, without disrupting water access to the entire house. It’s a good idea to test your valves once or twice a year so you're confident they work when it counts.

Gas Shutoff Valve

If you ever smell gas in your home (a scent often described as rotten eggs) it’s important to leave the area immediately. Don’t turn lights on or off, don't use your phone indoors, and don't operate any electrical switches. Once you’re safely outside, keep a safe distance from the home and call your gas provider or 911 to report the leak. Time is critical when it comes to gas leaks, as they can lead to fires or explosions if ignited.

Electrical Panel

The main circuit breaker panel controls the flow of electricity from your provider to every part of your home. Knowing how to use it is important for safety and for troubleshooting problems like tripped breakers or flickering lights. The panel is usually found in a garage, basement, hallway, or utility room, and contains labeled switches for different areas and appliances in your house.

In an emergency, especially if water is involved, it’s critical not to touch the panel. In less hazardous situations, such as when an outlet stops working or a breaker trips, you can restore power by flipping the appropriate switch. The panel also has a main shutoff switch that cuts power to the entire house. Label your circuits clearly and keep a flashlight nearby so you can access the panel even in the dark.

If you plan to do any electrical work or need to confirm that a circuit is no longer live, always use a multimeter or voltage tester. These tools let you safely verify that electricity is no longer flowing to an outlet, switch, or appliance before you begin repairs. Even if you’ve flipped the correct breaker, using a multimeter adds an extra layer of safety and peace of mind.

Why This Matters for Home Safety and Insurance

Acting quickly in the face of a utility emergency can help keep you safe, while helping to minimize damage. Taking a proactive approach, like learning how your shutoffs work, is a small step that can help avoid major headaches later. It’s the kind of knowledge every homeowner should have, but often overlooks. Contact us today for a homeowner insurance policy review to make sure your coverage is up to date and ready for whatever comes your way.

Six Overlooked Items You Should Add to Your Home Inventory

Wed, 03 Dec 2025 06:00:00 GMT

Creating a home inventory is one of the smartest steps you can take to prepare for the possibility of a future insurance claim. If your belongings are damaged or stolen, a detailed list makes it easier to verify losses and can speed up the claims process. While most people remember to include furniture, electronics, and appliances, there are a few often-overlooked items that can make a big difference.

Here are six things you might be forgetting in your home inventory, and why you should add them now.

1. Clothing and Accessories

Most people underestimate how much their wardrobe is worth. Coats, suits, shoes, handbags, and even everyday clothing can add up quickly. High-end or designer items may even need to be scheduled separately for proper coverage. Be sure to include seasonal clothing, like winter gear stored in the basement or garage, and take photos of anything of significant value.

2. Tools and Lawn Equipment

Power tools, lawnmowers, snow blowers, and garden tools are easy to forget, especially if they’re stored in the garage or shed. These items can be expensive to replace and are often targeted in thefts. Include any major outdoor equipment in your inventory, and don’t forget about toolboxes and specialty gear you’ve collected over time.

3. Kitchenware and Small Appliances

From stand mixers and espresso machines to cast iron pans and chef’s knives, kitchen items can be surprisingly costly to replace. Smaller appliances like toasters, air fryers, or blenders often get overlooked but should be included, especially if they’re high-end brands. Also consider specialty utensils, dinnerware sets, fine china, and bakeware collections that have accumulated over the years.

4. Hobby Equipment

Whether it’s photography gear, musical instruments, crafting tools, or sports equipment, hobby-related items can be worth hundreds or even thousands of dollars. Make sure to document these, including make, model, and serial numbers where applicable. Items like bicycles, golf clubs, or camping gear are also commonly stored out of sight but shouldn’t be forgotten.

5. Jewelry and Collectibles

While high-value jewelry is often separately insured, everyday pieces and keepsakes are sometimes left off inventories. The same goes for collectibles, whether it’s comic books, records, figurines, or family heirlooms. These items may not always be replaceable, but documenting them helps support your claim if damage or theft occurs.

6. Electronics and Entertainment Gear

Electronics are some of the most valuable items in a home, but they’re often under-documented in home inventories. Computers, tablets, speakers, gaming consoles, and streaming devices can quickly add up in value, especially when you include accessories like monitors, external hard drives, and controllers.

Be sure to record make, model, and serial numbers whenever possible, and take clear photos of each item. Don’t forget smart home devices like thermostats, doorbell cameras, or voice assistants, which may be mounted or tucked into corners.

Update Your Inventory Before You Need It

A complete and up-to-date home inventory can make filing a claim faster, easier, and more accurate. Walk through your home with a camera and notebook, and store your inventory in a secure digital location. Contact us today for an insurance policy review to ensure your belongings are properly covered, especially the ones you might have overlooked.

The Business Benefits of Safety Training for Employees

Wed, 03 Dec 2025 06:00:00 GMT

Workplace safety is more than just checking boxes for compliance. It’s a smart investment that can positively impact your bottom line, employee morale, and long-term risk exposure. Whether you run a construction firm, a retail shop, or a professional office, providing regular safety training to your employees is one of the most practical ways to reduce accidents and improve operational stability.

Fewer Accidents Can Mean Fewer Insurance Claims

One of the most direct benefits of safety training is a reduction in workplace accidents. When employees know how to properly use equipment, recognize hazards, and follow established protocols, they’re less likely to get injured on the job. Fewer accidents mean fewer workers’ compensation claims and potential liability incidents, which can result in lower insurance premiums over time.

In high-risk industries like manufacturing, construction, or transportation, even one prevented accident can save thousands of dollars in claims, lost productivity, and potential legal costs.

Improved Employee Confidence and Morale

Safety training doesn’t just reduce risk, it helps employees feel more secure in their roles. When your team understands how to handle emergencies, operate tools safely, and respond to incidents, it builds confidence. This can translate into higher morale, better productivity, and a stronger sense of trust between workers and management.

Employees who feel that their well-being is a priority are more likely to stay engaged and loyal to your business, reducing turnover and creating a more stable workforce.

Compliance with Regulations

In many industries, safety training is not optional, it’s required by OSHA or other regulatory agencies. Failing to comply with these standards can result in audits, leading to fines or legal consequences. Regular training can help ensure your business stays compliant and that your documentation is up to date, protecting you in the event of an inspection or investigation.

Keeping accurate records of your training programs also demonstrates diligence and responsibility, which can be helpful in both insurance evaluations and legal defense situations.

A Proactive Step Toward Risk Management

From an insurance perspective, a strong safety culture helps reduce risk exposure and the likelihood of costly claims. When employees are trained, equipment is maintained, and safety policies are followed, the chances of accidents or incidents go down significantly.

Even if insurance isn’t the first thing on your mind when starting a training program, the long-term financial benefits are clear. Fewer claims often mean more stable premiums over time, and fewer disruptions to your operations due to workplace injuries or accidents.

Build a Safer, Smarter Business

Safety training doesn’t have to be complicated or expensive. Even short, recurring sessions that cover basic best practices can have a lasting impact on your workplace. Whether you hire a professional trainer, use online modules, or develop your own materials, the most important thing is consistency and clarity. Contact us today for a commercial insurance review, and we’ll help you make sure your business insurance coverage aligns with your commitment to safety.

4 Important Tips to Help you Choose the Right Home Repair Professional

Wed, 24 Jul 2024 18:55:54 GMT

Your home is in need of some repairs, but you don't want just anyone in your home. Hiring a home repair professional can be stressful since it's crucial that you find one that you can trust. But finding the perfect home repair professional doesn't have to be a headache. Before hiring, you should be sure that your home is insured in case of a covered loss.

Check out our three tips to help you find the perfect one.

Talk to them on the phone. With nearly everything online these days, it's easy to check out a company's website and want to hire them on the spot. The only problem is, reading their website isn't the same as talking to them over the phone or in person. Before signing on the dotted line with your home repair professional, you should call them on the phone to talk over details of your project like what they can do for you, how much they'll charge, and more. You'll also be able to get a feel for their personality and determine if they're someone that you'd like working on your home.
Check out their reviews and testimonials. Reviews and testimonials are a great way to determine the quality of a home repair professional. Testimonials are extremely effective because they're unsolicited comments on the company - and they're all positive comments. Customers aren't forced to give testimonials, and when they give them, you know that it's because the service was amazing. You'll also want to check out reviews to see if the positive ones outweigh the negative ones.
Determine your budget and stick with it. To find the right home repair specialist for you, they have to fit within your budget. If they don't you could find yourself in financial turmoil when there are plenty of options out there that do fit your budget. Be sure to get a quote before you sign on with a specific repair company, and have your budget in mind when you talk to them. If you go into a conversation with an open budget, you're much more likely to overspend.
Make sure they are properly insured. Independent contractors should have the proper insurance coverage in place before they start work on your home. It is always a good idea to double check proof of insurance to ensure the repair professional and your property is covered.

Follow these four tips to help you find the perfect home repair professional that fits your needs.

The Smart Way to Secure Your Home

Wed, 10 Jul 2024 18:55:54 GMT

Smart technology has brought us many benefits, including new ways of securing our homes. Regardless of the type of home where you live, be it an apartment or a house or anything in between, you’re sure to find helpful options below that you can manage from anywhere with just your smartphone.

Smart Locks

Smart locks are a boon to both apartment dwellers and other homeowners. Many apartment management companies allow these or install them themselves because it saves their staff from dealing with lockouts and having to screen visitors.

Smart locks come in different varieties and can be configured in multiple ways, depending on your needs. For example, you can give a door passcode to your nanny or housekeeper to come and go without a key. If you change home workers, you simply have to change the code, with no worries about a stray key still in someone’s pocket.

You can also control some smart locks remotely with your smartphone. This is good for when a worker or delivery person is at the door and you want them to set a package inside, but you don’t want to give them the passcode to your home.

Door Cameras

Smart locks often go hand in hand with door cameras, also known as doorbell cameras. These record the comings and goings at your front entrance, and you can view it all on your mobile device.

Door cameras are ideal for:

Seeing who’s outside when an unexpected visitor rings the bell
Knowing when your kids come home from school when you’re not home
Monitoring your front door while you’re on vacation
Checking for a package delivery
Seeing if someone is stealing your packages or mail
Deterring would-be intruders on the front porch

Automatic Garage Door Features

Garage door technology has come a long way lately. Basic up/down features let you open and close the door from the comfort of your home’s interior or inside your vehicle.

Even better, new security elements let you control the door from afar with your smartphone or tablet. If you realize you left it open, you don’t have to wait until you go home again to close it.

Some garage door security options go one step further. You can get an alert if someone tries to raise or tilt the door, so you can stop an intruder by calling the police.

Lighting to Deter Intruders

Lighting has always been one of the best defenses against intruders. In addition to motion sensor lights and dawn/dusk features, you can now find lighting controlled by your cell phone.

Say you’re at work and your teen calls to say they're coming home early from sports practice. You can turn on the lights for them to make their entry safer. Likewise, you can turn lights on and off when you’re traveling to make it look like someone is home.

Alarms and Security Cameras

Alarms and security cameras are growing in both technology and popularity. There are DIY models and those that you must integrate with a security monitoring company for a fee. In the latter case, they usually provide the equipment and maintain it for you.

These systems let you watch who is in or on your property from a distance via your phone, whether you’re upstairs or halfway around the globe. Alarms will sound and you’ll get a mobile alert if someone opens a door, raises a window, or breaks glass. If you have a DIY system, you can call the police. If your system is part of a professional service, they will respond or alert local law enforcement.

Smoke Alarms and Carbon Monoxide Detectors

No home would be complete without smoke alarms and carbon monoxide detectors. Previously, these security elements were only helpful if you were present in the home. Now, however, you can get alarms on your mobile device with more sophisticated models that work with Wi-Fi to alert you to danger at home.

One more important thing to note about smart home security: be sure to let your insurance agent know about any features you add to your house or apartment. You may be entitled to savings on your homeowner's insurance or renter’s insurance, which is a nice bonus to the peace of mind you get with these security elements.

Preparation for Extreme Weather

Wed, 26 Jun 2024 18:55:54 GMT

Extreme weather events are becoming more common across the United States. These events can be a threat to your home and its inhabitants if you don’t take precautions. Follow these nine essential tips to stay safe and minimize the risk of danger to your residence when bad weather strikes.

Service Your HVAC System Regularly

In the spring and fall, have your HVAC system serviced professionally so it’s ready for the coming weather season. In the fall, check over the furnace and replace old filters. In the spring, make sure the air conditioning is working properly and trim back any plants encroaching on outdoor compressor units.

Prevent Burst Pipes

Burst pipes can result in huge plumbing expenses and interior water damage. You can prevent this by ensuring your pipes are properly insulated against freezing and by knowing what to do in a cold snap:

Apply insulation to pipes in cold areas of the home.
Use insulation in walls where pipes run.
Know the signs of pipes subject to freezing, such as condensation or frost on their exterior.
Open under-sink cabinet doors during deep freezes to allow room heat to warm pipes.
Never turn off the heat when temperatures approach freezing, even if you won’t be home.
If your power goes out and you worry about freezing pipes, open your taps to a slight drip to help keep them from freezing completely.

Sign Up for Power Outage and Other Emergency Alerts

Whenever possible, enroll in your area’s alert system for power outages and other emergencies. Many regions now have mobile device apps and alerts for when power will be cut due to fire risk, for example, or when a serious storm is approaching.

Keep Your Electronics Charged

During times when extreme weather is likely, it is a good idea to keep your devices and flashlights fully charged. Consider investing in a lithium battery pack to charge them when the power goes out. A battery-powered radio is also great to have around for emergency broadcasts.

Have a Safe Emergency Lighting Option

While candles used to be the old standby for power outages, there are safer options if you need light. The battery pack chargers mentioned above often come standard with an LED light, which you can supplement with flashlights. Most smartphones also have a bright flashlight feature. Electric candles and battery-powered camping lanterns are other smart choices.

Store Food, Water, and Essential Personal Items for Emergencies

Don’t forget to keep emergency supplies on hand for times when the power goes out. Stock up on these items in advance:

Nonperishable food items
Foods you can eat without cooking if you don’t have a gas stove you can light manually
An extra can opener
Batteries in the sizes you need
Drinking water, including enough for pets
Extra water for washing and cleaning (wipes and dry shampoo are handy, too)
Personal care and essential household items
Medications and first-aid supplies
Battery-powered fans and cooling bandanas
Emergency heat blankets or sleeping bags
Hand and foot warmer packs

Understand Carbon Monoxide Poisoning Risks

Every year, during extreme weather events, Americans suffer tragic deaths due to carbon monoxide poisoning. This is usually due to using things like using outdoor grills inside or trying to provide heat by turning on a gas stove, both of which are dangerous and should never be done.

Combustion of gas, wood, and charcoal without the proper ventilation can cause a buildup of carbon monoxide (CO) in the air, which can be fatal if inhaled, as it replaces oxygen in the bloodstream. Signs of CO poisoning include sleepiness, loss of consciousness, confusion, and blue hands, feet, and lips. Call 911 immediately if you or a family member experience these symptoms.

Never use outdoor grills or camp stoves indoors, and never use your oven for heat. Make sure your fireplace and chimney are clean before using them in cold weather. Buy a few carbon monoxide detectors for your home to alert you if dangerous levels of CO are present.

Make Sure Everyone in Your Family and Community Are Safe, Too

Remember to check in on family members and others in your community during extreme weather emergencies. People who are especially vulnerable include folks who live alone, seniors, families with babies, and those who are disabled.

Have an Emergency Plan If You Must Leave Your Home

Finally, develop an emergency plan in case staying in your home isn’t feasible due to extreme temperatures or storm damage. Know ahead of time where you can head for shelter and heating or cooling, such as public libraries, schools, and other facilities designated for assistance. When you plan in advance, you’ll stay safer and worry less, no matter when bad weather visits your town.

Keep your Home Safe While You're Away with These 5 Tips

Wed, 12 Jun 2024 18:55:54 GMT

Are you planning your next big family vacation? Maybe you’re traveling for business, or need to be away from home for a few days. Although we don't like to think about the possibility of our home being damaged or burglarized while we're away, it's something to consider to ensure that it stays safe - and in one piece for your return.

Check out our five tips for ensuring that your home is safe while you're away.

Be sure to check all outlets before you leave. This may sound like a no-brainer, but checking all of the electrical outlets before you leave your home is a must. If you leave something that creates heat plugged in, like a curling iron or coffee pot, it could result in a fire. Taking a few minutes to do a once-over before you leave to ensure that all appliances are unplugged before you leave will give you peace of mind.
Lock all doors and all windows, even the ones that you don't think are easily accessible. One of the biggest mistakes that homeowners make is not checking all of their doors and windows before they leave. You want to be sure to check even the doors that you don't think are accessible from the outside - like the doors to your home from your attached garage, and other internal entrance points, like from your basement to your main level. This will ensure that you have various levels of protection in the event of a break in.
If you normally leave the blinds open, do so. You want to leave things looking as normal as possible, and not leave any reason for passersby to think that you're gone. Keep your home safe by leaving some blinds open to give people the impression that someone is still in the home.
Stop the mail for the time period that you're gone. Like we mentioned in the previous tip, you want to give the impression that you're still home. If passersby see that your mailbox is bursting at the seams, they might get the idea that you're gone, which is exactly what you want to avoid. Stop your mail delivery for the time period that you're gone, so that you don't have to worry about people becoming suspicious.
Insure your home properly. With proper home insurance, you can travel in peace. Be sure to talk with Calderon Insurance Agency about the right coverage for your home.

Now go enjoy a much-needed vacation!