Residence: Leaving

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


(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 โ€šร„ยข 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



EXPLORE: At Home

Thanks for reading!