Vacation-Proof Your Home Before You Leave

About this update from Mercury General Corporation

Mercury Insurance shares 10 simple steps to help homeowners avoid costly surprises while they're away LOS ANGELES, July 9, 2026 /PRNewswire/ -- Mercury Insurance (NYSE/NYSE TX: MCY) is encouraging homeowners to take a few simple precautions before leaving for vacation as new research shows nearly two-thirds of summer travelers admit they could do a better job protecting their homes while they're away. Whether you're heading out for a long weekend or an extended getaway, spending a few extra minutes preparing your home can help reduce the risk of theft, water damage, electrical issues and other costly surprises. "Preparing your home before a vacation doesn't have to take hours, but it can make a meaningful difference," said Larry Anderson, Director of Underwriting Operations for Mercury Insurance. "Simple habits like checking your water supply, making your home appear occupied and asking someone you trust to keep an eye on the property can help homeowners return home with greater peace of mind." Many of the most common vacation-related home losses are preventable. Mercury recommends homeowners add these 10 steps to every pre-vacation checklist: 1. Lock every door and window Double-check all entry points before leaving, including garage doors, side gates and second-story windows that may have been left open. Don't forget to secure sliding glass doors and any detached structures, such as sheds. 2. Make your home look lived in Use timers or smart-home automation to turn lights on and off at different times. If possible, vary lighting schedules in different rooms. A home that appears occupied is generally less attractive to potential burglars. 3. Pause mail and package deliveries Overflowing mail, newspapers and packages can quickly signal that no one is home. Consider placing a temporary hold on deliveries or asking a trusted neighbor to collect them while you're away. 4. Consider shutting off your home's main water supply Water damage can become significantly more expensive when a leak goes unnoticed for days. If practical, shutting off the main water supply before an extended trip can help prevent a minor plumbing issue from becoming a major repair. 5. Adjust your thermostat Set your thermostat to maintain a safe indoor temperature while reducing unnecessary energy use. Smart thermostats also allow homeowners to monitor conditions and make adjustments ...

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