Leaving Home for Vacation? Essential Safety Checks Before You Go

The suitcases are packed, everyone is ready, and you're finally heading out the door. But before leaving your home empty for an extended period, there are a few important safety precautions worth taking. From shutting off the gas supply to checking electrical appliances and preventing water leaks, a quick inspection can help protect your home from unexpected problems while you're away.

Gas: Check the Stove and Shut Off the Supply

Before leaving, make sure all stove burners are turned off and the control knobs are in the off position. It's also advisable to close the gas shutoff valve, which is usually located inside one of the kitchen cabinets. In apartment buildings with a centralized gas supply, be careful not to shut off a valve shared by other residents. Never disconnect gas hoses, tamper with connections, or force a stuck valve. If you're unsure which shutoff valve belongs to your apartment, contact your gas supplier before your trip.

Electrical Appliances: What Should You Unplug?

Small kitchen appliances, including electric kettles, toasters, and coffee machines, can be switched off and unplugged when not in use. The same applies to irons, hair dryers, and hair-styling tools. Always remove plugs by gripping the plug itself rather than pulling on the cord.

Televisions, computers, gaming consoles, and other electronic devices may also be disconnected. However, before switching off a power strip, check what is plugged into it. Some strips supply electricity to internet routers, security systems, or other equipment that may need to remain operational.

Never leave a washing machine, dryer, or dishwasher running when you leave for an extended period. Complete any active cycles, remove wet laundry, and clear food residue from the dishwasher. These larger appliances do not necessarily need to be unplugged.

Refrigerator and Freezer: Prevent Spoilage

For a typical vacation, your refrigerator and freezer can remain at their usual operating temperatures. Before leaving, check the contents and remove any perishable foods likely to spoil before your return. Make sure no packages or containers prevent the doors from closing completely.

For an extended absence, consider emptying the refrigerator and freezer entirely. If you choose to switch the appliance off, remove all food, defrost the freezer, and thoroughly clean and dry both compartments. Leave the doors slightly open to help prevent mold and unpleasant odors.

Water Heater and Air Conditioning: Check Automatic Timers

Switch off the electric water heater and disable any Shabbat timers or automatic schedules that might turn it back on. If the heater is controlled through an app, check its programmed settings as well.

Air conditioners, space heaters, and other heating devices should also be turned off, including any scheduled operating cycles. If pets will remain at home, arrange appropriate supervision and ensure that suitable indoor temperatures are maintained throughout your absence.

Water Supply: Reduce the Risk of Leaks

Closing your apartment's main water shutoff valve can help limit damage if a pipe or plumbing fixture develops a leak while you're away. Make sure you have identified the valve serving your own apartment rather than a shared building supply, and never force a valve that is stuck.

Before turning off the water, check whether any systems need a continuous supply. Automatic irrigation, for example, will stop functioning if its water source is disconnected. Fire suppression systems must remain operational and should never be shut off. If you'll be away for a month or longer, consider switching off or unplugging an electric water dispenser, following the manufacturer's instructions.

Home Internet: Keep Security Systems Connected

If your security cameras, alarm system, or smart-home devices depend on your home internet connection, leave the router and necessary networking equipment powered on. Before departing, test remote access to your cameras using your phone's cellular connection rather than your home Wi-Fi. This will confirm that you can monitor your property from outside your home network. If no equipment requires an internet connection during your absence, you can switch off the router and related devices.

Final Checklist Before Locking the Door

A few last-minute checks can help you leave with greater peace of mind:

• Empty household trash bins, especially those containing food waste.

• Wash dishes and remove food scraps from the kitchen sink.

• Confirm that the stove and oven are off and the gas shutoff valve is closed.

• Turn off the water heater and heating appliances, including automatic schedules.

• Check that the refrigerator and freezer doors are securely closed.

• Make sure all windows are shut and exterior doors are locked.

Taking a few minutes to complete these checks can reduce the risk of leaks, electrical hazards, spoiled food, and other preventable problems while your home is unoccupied. A little preparation before leaving can make it much easier to enjoy your vacation without worrying about what might be happening back home.