Safeguard Your Home: Expert Advice for a Worry-Free Vacation

As you prepare to embark on your well-deserved vacation, it's essential to ensure your apartment is secure and protected from potential hazards. According to Vyaacheslav Loktev, an electrical specialist, one of the most common mistakes people make is leaving their appliances plugged in, thinking they're safe in standby mode. However, these devices continue to consume electricity and can be damaged by power surges. To avoid equipment malfunctions and reduce the risk of household accidents, it's crucial to properly prepare your home before leaving. Loktev recommends disconnecting appliances from the power grid, especially if you have separate automatic switches for different groups of consumers. If not, simply unplugging devices from sockets is a good alternative. In some cases, it's more convenient to completely disconnect the power supply to your apartment through the input automatic switch in the electrical panel. Nevertheless, be sure to check that no devices requiring constant power are left behind. Exceptions include refrigerators, which should be left on to prevent unpleasant odors from developing. On the other hand, if you can empty your fridge, it's better to switch it off. You can also leave routers, security cameras, and alarm systems on to ensure your home's safety. Before departing, inspect your electrical wiring and sockets for any signs of damage and address them promptly to avoid potential dangers. Don't forget to shut off the gas supply, disable water heaters, and turn off the water mains to prevent leaks and other issues. Loktev notes that while some people used to leave lights, radios, or TVs on to create the illusion of presence, this method is no longer effective and can lead to unnecessary energy consumption. Instead, consider investing in security cameras, motion sensors, or alarm systems to keep your home secure while you're away. Finally, remember to close your windows, especially if you live on a lower floor, to prevent water from entering your apartment during heavy rainfall or strong winds.