How to Ensure Safety When Moving to a New Locale
Maintaining our safety is a type of vigilance we train ourselves of by being aware of our surroundings and situations. When the time to move comes, we have to retrain ourselves how to be alert to our new world. Discovering and immersing into a new location, culture and lifestyle can be an exciting adventure, but preplanning your relocation will make your next steps safe and seamless.
Before You Move
When possible, pre-visit your new city and home. Wander through different neighborhoods; consider proximity to amenities, including grocery stores, transportation, a post office, schools, and your new job. Whether you are moving nationally or internationally, you may need to research the political climate, the vernacular and the expected social norms. Learning about your surroundings and planning your routes and daily routines can make your new transition safe and smooth – even if you must do it virtually.
The Physical Move
Research local movers by reading reviews online, checking what services they offer and/or include, and the complete pricing for the truck. You will also want to know what supplies to have on hand. Movers can be your best friend, but you have to know what your own needs are in advance. If you have children, be sure to include them in the packing and let them help where possible. They can mark their own boxes and feel secure that their belongings will make the journey safe and sound. Keep an inventory to ensure you get each and every one of your boxes from point A to point B.
Your New Home
Once you arrive in your new home, there is much to do to secure and make your new abode safe and secure for you and your family. Change your locks; if nothing else, it keeps your own peace of mind. Set up your home security system in advance for set up if possible. Greet your neighbors; a smile and wave can do wonders and enables your new neighbors to know who should be coming and going versus anyone that shouldn’t be around. Change out your smoke and carbon monoxide detectors. Also remember to clean out your dryer vents as this is a silent fire hazard many times overlooked.
Being vigilant in the world around you is a necessary step, yet the peace of mind that comes with planning your move and next adventure can be priceless. Once you are aware of your new surroundings and settled into your new home, you will sleep well knowing your entire family is safe and sound.