It is the eid holiday, a time to escape the heat by going to a breezy resort. Your bags are packed with all the holiday essentials, from tanning lotion to evening attire. But there is still one task that needs to be taken care of — preparing your house for the holidays. Whether you are away for a few days or a few weeks, you need to make sure you leave your home safe and secure. So, if you're jetting off soon, follow this essential pre-holiday to-do list. Then all you need to worry about is whether to hit the beach or the sights when you arrive at your destination. • Unplug televisions, laptops, microwaves, toasters, kettles and all other electrical devices before travelling. Remember, electronics draw power even when not in use. And for safety reasons, pull the plugs in case a power surge happens while you are away. • If you do not have a friendly neighbour or family member to help you water your indoor plants, place the plants on wet towels and leave them in the bathtub or fill a tray with water and place the plants on the tray. • Plug all the drains in sinks, showers and bathtubs. Summertime is the time for creepy-crawlies to come out of their hiding. An empty house is a perfect place to come out and play, without anyone to squash them. • Clean up your home properly before leaving. Don't forget to empty all the rubbish bins. After a long holiday, nothing feels better than coming back to a clean and tidy home. • Turn off the water supply to washing machines, dishwashers, ice-makers and toilets. • Make sure you have not left any dirty dishes in the dishwasher or wet clothes in the washing machine or dryer. • Sprinkle a small amount of baking soda down the toilet and the drains as this will help prevent the water turning stagnant. • Turn the hot water heater down to conserve energy while you are away. • Consider turning off the gas and water at the mains while you are away to avoid any potential damage or floods. • Clear out the fridge and larder of any food that is likely to go off. Defrost the freezer. • Lock all windows and doors securely. • If you are leaving a vehicle at home make sure it is securely locked and left on the driveway. Alternatively, leave it in a garage. • If driving to your holiday destination, make sure your car is in good order and that you fill up with petrol the day before travelling. • Prepare a packing checklist and don't leave the packing to the night before travelling.
