Fall is here. With that brings cooler temps, making it a great time to take some necessary steps to get your home ready for winter. Put your mind at ease by repairing any damages before the frost sets in. Better Homes and Gardens has a great checklist in winterizing your home. You can see some of the list here, but head over to Better Homes and Gardens to find your detailed fall home maintenance checklist.
- Get your mind in the gutters
- Button up your overcoat
- Get on top of roof problems
- Walk the walks (and drives)
- Chill out
- Freshen your filter
- Give your furnace a physical
- Gather round the hearth
- Keep the humidifier humming
- Head-off gas problems
- Keep the wood fires burning brightly
- Keep your family safe at home
You can keep your family safe at home by reviewing your home’s safety features and take the time to also run through your family’s evacuation plan. Test smoke detectors, inspect or install fire extinguishers, review fire escape plans, and rid your home of any fire hazards.
Smoke and CO detectors-
Replace batteries in both, vacuum with a soft brush attachment. Test the detectors using the test button or even with a small source of smoke (like a blown-out candle).
Fire extinguishers-
One near the kitchen and one per floor, check the indicator on the pressure gauge for charge. Make sure the lock is intact and in place, and that the discharge nozzle is not clogged. Fire extinguishers that are more than 6 years old should be replaced. Mark the purchase date with a permanent marker.
Fire escape plans-
Every bedroom (including basement bedrooms) should have 2 exit paths. Ensure windows aren’t blocked by furniture. Keep a rope ladder handy for the windows in the upper floor bedrooms. Review what to do in case of a fire and arrange or revisit your safe meeting place for everyone away from the house.
General cleanup-
Rid your home of accumulations of old newspapers and leftover hazardous household chemicals. Store flammable materials, etc. in approved, labeled containers. Keep space clear near heaters, furnaces, and other heat producing appliances.
Source:
Better Homes and Gardens – Home improvement – Your Home’s Fall Checklist
http://www.bhg.com/home-improvement/maintenance/weatherizing/your-homes-fall-checklist/
