House sitting offers incredible travel opportunities, but safety should always be your top priority. Whether you’re watching a city apartment or a rural farmhouse, these strategies will help you stay secure and confident during your house sitting adventures.

Personal Safety Preparations

Arrival Safety Hack: The Digital Check-In
Every smartphone automatically embeds location data into photos. Before entering a property, I take a quick picture and text it to my emergency contact. Every digital photo contains precise GPS coordinates, which means:
– Your exact location is instantly shared
– No special apps required
– Creates an immediate record of your whereabouts
– Provides peace of mind for you and your loved ones

Before You Arrive
– Verify the homeowner’s identity through multiple communication channels
– Share your detailed itinerary with a trusted contact
– Conduct a video call with the homeowner before confirming the sit
– Trust your instincts – if something feels off, don’t proceed

Initial Home Assessment
– Perform a thorough walkthrough upon arrival
– Note all entry and exit points
– Locate emergency supplies
– Test all locks and security systems
– Understand local neighborhood dynamics

Digital and Personal Security

Communication Protection
– Use platform-provided messaging systems
– Avoid sharing personal contact information immediately
– Create a separate email for house sitting communications
– Be cautious about social media posts revealing your location

Personal Boundaries
– Establish clear expectations with homeowners
– Maintain professional communication
– Don’t feel obligated to engage beyond agreed responsibilities
– Have a backup plan for accommodation if needed

Practical Safety Measures

Home Security
– Keep doors locked
– Use provided security systems
– Be aware of neighbourhood watch dynamics
– Avoid broadcasting your temporary residence status

Personal Preparedness
– Pack a small emergency kit
– Keep important documents secure
– Have backup identification and payment methods
– Know local emergency contact numbers

Warning Signs to Watch For

Red Flags During House Sitting
– Vague or inconsistent homeowner communication
– Pressure to accept unusual terms
– Requests for unnecessary personal information
– Homes in clearly unsafe locations
– Lack of clear house sitting agreement

## Emergency Preparedness

### Critical Backup Plans
– Have emergency contact information
– Know local hospital and police station locations
– Maintain travel insurance
– Keep some financial buffer for unexpected situations
– Have a trusted contact who knows your whereabouts

## Legal and Documentation Protection

– Get everything in writing
– Use reputable house sitting platforms
– Understand your rights and responsibilities
– Keep copies of all communications
– Document the home’s condition before and after sitting

## Mental and Emotional Safety

– Trust your intuition
– Don’t feel pressured into uncomfortable situations
– Prioritise your personal comfort and security
– Be prepared to walk away if something doesn’t feel right

Remember: Your safety is always more important than any house sitting opportunity. Stay alert, prepared, and confident.