The Summer Cottage
We want to ensure that the summer cottage is a place of refuge. You’re more relaxed when safety matters are in order, and that certainly applies to your summer cottage as well. Whether the cottage is in use or has become empty after a pleasant weekend, it is important to pay close attention to preventive measures to prevent or minimise damage.
For winter
It is important to turn off the hot and cold drinking water inlets and empty connected appliances when leaving the cottage.
If the cottage is heated with central heating, it is safest to have a closed-circuit system with antifreeze and a preheater located outside the main building. The inlet should always be closed when leaving the summer cottage.
It is a good idea to monitor the temperature in the cottage, for example via an app if possible, and is especially important after severe frosts and if the cottage is not used much.
Carefully secure loose items and construction materials outdoors to prevent wind damage.
Fire safety
Have a smoke detector in your summer cottage, just like in your home. The number of smoke detectors depends on the size of the cottage, and it's a good idea to always have a few batteries for replacement.
If there is a sleeping loft in the cottage, an escape route must be clear. Is there an external fire escape in your cottage?
Keep either a powder or water fire extinguisher in a prominent place at the exit of the cottage.
A fire blanket is essential for the kitchen.
If you have electric radiators, you need to be careful not to cover them. For example, don't dry clothes on them.
The last person to go to bed blows out all the candles.
Barbecue and gas
Have a gas detector in the kitchen closest to the floor.
Store gas cylinders in a safe place, preferably in cabinets designed for that purpose.
Remove the gas cylinder from beneath the barbecue when you use it, so it is less exposed to heat and grease.
Make sure the mice don't chew everything to pieces.
The hot tub
Have a professional connect temperature-controlled faucets to ensure quality and the correct temperature.
Keep a thermometer in the hot tub.
Never leave young children alone and unattended in a hot tub and always place a safety cover over it immediately after use.
Make sure the cover on the hot tub is securely attached so it doesn't blow off.
Burglary
Close and lock doors and windows securely.
Pull down window shades so you can't see in.
In general, do not store valuables in summer cottages or have them visible.
Talk to your neighbours about keeping an eye on each other's cottages.
Restrict traffic in summer cottage areas with gates.
Set up good lighting and a video camera system, if possible.
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