Before going on that summer vacation, it’s important to ensure your house is secure and well-maintained to avoid any issues while you’re away. Here are some key things to take care of: 

Security Measures: 

Lock all doors and windows. 

Set your alarm system, if you have one. 

Inform a trusted neighbor or friend about your absence so they can keep an eye on your property. 

Use timers for lights to make your home look occupied. 

Utilities: 

Turn off non-essential electronics and unplug them to save energy and reduce the risk of electrical fires. 

Consider turning your main water line off to prevent leaks or pipe bursts. 

Adjust your thermostat to a reasonable temperature to save on energy bills. 

Mail and Deliveries: 

Hold your mail or have someone collect it regularly to avoid it piling up. 

Suspend newspaper deliveries. 

Arrange for any scheduled deliveries to be postponed or redirected. 

Pets: 

Arrange for a pet sitter or boarding for your pets. 

Ensure they have enough food, water, and any necessary medications. 

Yard and Garden: 

Mow the lawn and water your plants before you leave. 

Arrange for someone to take care of your garden if you’ll be away for an extended period. 

Cleanliness: 

Dispose of perishable foods to avoid coming home to bad odors. 

Empty all trash cans. 

Run the dishwasher and ensure it’s empty before you leave. 

Safety Checks: 

Ensure smoke detectors and carbon monoxide detectors are functioning. 

Secure any outdoor furniture or items that could be blown away or damaged by weather. 

Financial and Legal Preparations: 

Pay any bills that will come due while you’re away. 

Leave emergency contact information with a trusted person. 

Ensure your insurance policies are up to date. 

Taking these steps will help ensure your home remains secure and in good condition while you’re enjoying your vacation. 

Visit us online at WestenMutual.com

Preparing for an earthquake in California is crucial due to the state’s high seismic activity. Here’s a comprehensive guide on how to prepare:

1. Create an Emergency Plan

Discuss with Family/Household Members: Ensure everyone knows what to do during an earthquake, including where to go and how to stay safe.

Establish Communication Plans: Determine how to communicate with each other if separated. Choose an out-of-state contact person for everyone to reach out to.

Know Safe Spots: Identify safe spots in each room, such as under sturdy furniture or against an interior wall away from windows.

2. Build an Emergency Kit

Water: At least one gallon per person per day for three days.

Food: Non-perishable items for at least three days.

First Aid Kit: Include bandages, antiseptic, medications, and any necessary medical supplies.

Tools and Supplies: Flashlights, batteries, a radio (preferably hand-crank or battery-powered), a whistle, dust masks, plastic sheeting, duct tape, and a wrench or pliers to turn off utilities.

Personal Items: Extra clothing, sturdy shoes, blankets, copies of important documents, cash, and any special needs items such as baby supplies or pet food.

3. Secure Your Home

Fasten Heavy Furniture: Anchor bookcases, cabinets, and other tall furniture to walls.

Secure Water Heaters: Strap water heaters to the wall to prevent tipping.

Install Latches: Place latches on kitchen cabinets to prevent contents from spilling out.

Inspect and Retrofit: If your home is older, consider hiring a professional to evaluate it for earthquake readiness and retrofit it if necessary.

4. Know How to Shut Off Utilities

Gas: Learn how to turn off the gas supply if you smell gas after an earthquake.

Water: Know where your main water valve is located and how to turn it off to prevent water damage from broken pipes.

Electricity: Be prepared to turn off your electrical panel if you suspect damage to your home’s wiring.

5. Practice Earthquake Drills

Drop, Cover, and Hold On: Regularly practice this technique. Drop to your hands and knees, cover your head and neck, and hold on to something sturdy.

Evacuation Routes: Identify safe exits from each room and your home. Practice how to get out quickly but safely.

6. Stay Informed

Know Your Area’s Risk: Familiarize yourself with local seismic history and fault lines.

Stay Updated: Keep a battery-powered or hand-crank radio in your emergency kit to receive news and instructions during and after an earthquake.

7. After an Earthquake

Check for Injuries: Tend to yourself and your family members first, and then check on neighbors.

Inspect for Damage: Look for structural damage in your home. If you suspect gas leaks, turn off the gas and leave the building.

Be Prepared for Aftershocks: These can occur minutes, days, or even weeks after the initial quake.

8. Community Involvement

Know Your Neighbors: Build relationships with neighbors to help each other during emergencies.

Get Involved in CERT: Consider joining a Community Emergency Response Team (CERT) to learn skills and contribute to community resilience.

9. Prepare Your Workplace and Car

Workplace: Know the emergency plan at your workplace and participate in drills.

Car: Keep an emergency kit in your car with essentials like water, food, a first-aid kit, and blankets.

Being prepared can significantly reduce the impact of an earthquake on you and your family.

Visit us online at WestenMutual.com

Saving money on home utilities can be achieved through a combination of simple habits, upgrades, and smart investments. Here are some strategies: 

Electricity 

Energy-Efficient Appliances: Upgrade to energy-efficient appliances, like those with the Energy Star label. 

Lighting: Switch to LED bulbs, which use less energy and last longer than incandescent bulbs. 

Unplug Devices: Unplug devices when they’re not in use to avoid phantom energy drain. 

Ceiling Fans: Use ceiling fans to circulate air, reducing the need for heating and cooling. 

Heating and Cooling 

Insulation: Properly insulate your home to maintain temperature. 

Sealing: Seal windows and doors to prevent drafts. 

HVAC Maintenance: Regularly maintain your HVAC system to ensure it’s running efficiently. 

Programmable Thermostats: Set your thermostat to lower temperatures when you’re not home. 

Water 

Low-Flow Fixtures: Install low-flow showerheads and faucets. 

Fix Leaks: Repair any leaks promptly. 

Water Heater: Lower the temperature on your water heater to 120°F. 

Efficient Appliances: Use energy-efficient washing machines and dishwashers. 

Gas 

Efficient Heating: Use energy-efficient furnaces and water heaters. 

Cook Smart: Use microwave ovens or slow cookers instead of gas stoves when possible. 

Internet and Cable 

Bundle Services: Consider bundling your services with one provider for a discount. 

Shop Around: Regularly compare rates from different providers. 

Cut the Cord: Evaluate whether you need traditional cable or if streaming services can meet your needs. 

General Tips 

Monitor Usage: Regularly check your utility bills to monitor usage patterns. 

Smart Power Strips: Use smart power strips to manage power use more effectively. 

Solar Panels: If feasible, consider investing in solar panels to reduce electricity costs in the long term. 

Seasonal Adjustments 

Summer: Close blinds or curtains during the hottest part of the day to keep the house cooler. 

Winter: Open curtains during the day to let sunlight in and close them at night to retain heat. 

Implementing these strategies can help you reduce your utility bills and save money over time. 

Visit us online at WestenMutual.com