Things to Check Before Leaving the House (Quick List)

This is the “fast version” of a leaving-home checklist—optimized for people who want fewer decisions and fewer repeat checks. The point is to reduce dependency on working memory, which has well-documented capacity limits (often discussed as only a few “chunks” at once).

Use a three-bucket scan every time:

Safety (prevent damage/fire)

• Stove/oven off (especially if you cooked).
• Heat tools off (iron, hair tools).
• Water taps checked (if relevant).

Security (prevent easy entry)

• Door locked.
• Windows closed/locked.
• Valuables out of sight (don’t advertise).

Essentials (avoid “turn around and go back”)

• Keys + phone + wallet.
• Medications you must take on schedule (if applicable). (Prospective memory examples commonly include remembering medication.)
• Bag/work badge/charger (based on your day).

To make this reliable, don’t improvise the order. “Same order, same place” reduces decision friction and supports habit formation through repetition in a stable cue.