If you’re packing your bags for a spring break getaway, take a little time before you leave to implement the tips below—they’ll help keep your home safer while you’re gone, and free your mind of worry so that you can truly enjoy your trip.

1. Tell your neighbors that you will be away. Inform your neighbors and friends of the dates that you will be gone and ask them to keep an eye out for any suspicious activity around your home.
2. Clean up the kitchen. Dispose of any food that will spoil and take out the garbage and recycling. Any food left in the trash or even the sink can rot and may even attract unwanted, four-legged animal or insect scavengers into your home.
3. Turn off the water. If you live in an area of the country where your pipes might freeze, or if you’re concerned about a plumbing leak occurring while you’re gone, it’s a good idea to turn off the water while you are away so you can avoid a potential indoor flood.
4. Invest in simple security measures. These easy and inexpensive security tips can make your home more secure: install a light switch timer that can turn your house lights on and off on a schedule; park a car in your driveway to make it look like you’re home; make sure all windows and doors are locked before you go; and just to be safe, put valuables away out of plain sight.

Spring break should be a time to get away and relax, not to be worrying about your home. With these tips, you’ll be able to reduce your risk of theft or damage occurring at your residence, and have peace of mind as you travel.