Residence: Leaving

Here are some things to consider doing. Some items may not be applicable to you.

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(e.g., for brief absence)

Well before leaving:

• Ensure your name and phone number are on all items which are susceptible to being lost or stolen

• Listen to radio and/or watch TV for:

  • Traffic conditions
  • Weather forecast so you can wear appropriate clothing and take appropriate gear, e.g., umbrella

If you intend to drive:

• Consider whether you need to allow time to get gas before reaching your destination
• Plan to get gas at a time and place which is safe (e.g., not at night ‚Ä¢ higher risk of crime), convenient and economical

Shortly before leaving:

• Apply sunscreen approx. 30 minutes before going out in the sun
• Don’t take anything you won’t need and don’t want to lose, e.g., some items in your wallet
• Set VCR/DVR (eg. Tivo)
• Let someone (living with you or near you) know where you’re going and when you expect to be back
• Set lights to make residence appear occupied to help prevent burglaries
• Close and lock windows to keep rain, burglars, etc. out
• Close and lock doors to keep burglars, etc. out

If you have a message for someone who you think might visit while you’re gone:

• Leave a note on your front door (be discreet if you’re concerned about burglars)

If you would like to let someone know where you’re going:

• Leave a message on someone’s answering machine

Right before leaving:

• Take/check list(s) of things to buy, get, do

• Take:

  • Sunscreen/sunblock approx. 7,000 people die in U.S. each year from skin cancer
  • Hat (e.g., one with cloth flap(s) and/or a wide brim to protect your head and neck from sun exposure
  • Indicator of sun intensity (some can be stuck onto your skin)
  • Identification in case you become sick or injured
  • Medical information in case you become sick or injured

• Set security system(s)/ measures

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EXPLORE: At Home