SAN DIEGO COUNTY – Home and business owners can reduce their chances of property damage by taking measures ahead of time to protect their unoccupied house or business, according to the Institute for Business & Home Safety – an independent, nonprofit, scientific and educational organization supported by the property insurance industry – which works to reduce the social and economic effects of natural disasters and other risks to residential and commercial property by conducting research and advocating improved construction, maintenance and preparation practices.

The number of vacant homes in the U.S. rose from 14 million in 2008, to 19 million by the first quarter of 2010, according to data from the U.S. Census Bureau.

In addition, the number of vacant commercial properties is also said to have risen significantly in the past few years.

"Property protection measures are crucial for vacant buildings," said Julie Rochman, IBHS president and CEO. "Even relatively minor damage, such as water intrusion, that goes undiscovered and/or unrepaired can quickly grow into a serious, much more costly disaster."

Some key things property owners may want to consider if they know their home or building will be vacant include the following:

Keep wind and water out

Make sure that tree branches are cut back five to six feet from roof and wall surfaces. Check for any signs of roof leaks and have any leaks fixed. If the home or building is in a windy region where debris impact protection is required for new construction, make sure that the windows and doors are protected. Be sure to secure outdoor furniture and other objects that could become damaging missiles in high wind.

Keep it cool

This has been said to be a hot summer in many parts of the country, and thermostats in vacant homes should be set to no higher than 85 degrees to prevent high temperatures and humidity from damaging furniture or other contents.

Shut off water and gas

Water heaters, appliances, and pipes (PVC and copper) can leak or burst, which can cause major damage in a home left unattended. One way to protect a home or building is to have the water shut off. When the water is turned off, be sure to also shut off the power or gas to the water heater (or the gas company can do this).

Leave electricity on

Advise the utility company of the vacancy. Ask to be notified in the event of high usage or an emergency.

Install lighting

This can act to ward off potential animal infestation and criminal activity, and to give the appearance of occupancy.

Make property appear occupied

This can help reduce the risks of vandalism or other crime. Arrange for maintenance of the exterior by mowing lawns, taking care of shrubbery, and removing leaves.

An important tip suggested by the Institute for Business & Home Safety states if a house or building has a fire protection sprinkler system, it will be deactivated when the water is shut off. Consequently, owners may want to leave the water on to the house and concentrate on turning off water to appliances, such as an automatic ice maker or a washing machine. Also, turn off water to toilets to prevent water use from any toilets that may start running.

Visit www.disastersafety.org for more information about how to make a property more resistant to a variety of disasters – big and small.