06/06/2026
Summer's Here! Is your home ready?
Summer is officially here — and with it comes backyard barbecues, pool days, and the occasional pop-up storm. It's the most fun time of year, but it's also a great moment to make sure your home is ready for the season. Here are a few simple tips to keep your family safe all summer long.
🔥 Grill Safety
Before you fire up the grill for the first time this season, give it a quick inspection. Check the burners and connections for any grease buildup or blockages, and make sure it's positioned at least 10 feet away from your home, deck railings, or any overhanging branches. Never leave a lit grill unattended — and always keep a fire extinguisher nearby, just in case.
🏊 Pool & Water Safety
Whether you have a full in-ground pool or a pop-up for the kids, water safety is non-negotiable. Make sure young swimmers are always supervised by an adult, and consider a pool fence or alarm as an extra layer of protection. It's also a great time to double-check that your life rings, pool hooks, and first aid kit are stocked and easy to access.
⛈️ Storm Preparedness
Summer storms in our area can roll in fast. Take a walk around your yard and trim any dead branches that could fall on your home or car during high winds. Keep a go-bag ready with flashlights, batteries, bottled water, and important documents — and know where your home's main water and electrical shutoffs are, just in case.
🔋 Test Your Smoke & Carbon Monoxide Detectors
It only takes a minute, but it can make all the difference. Press the test button on each detector in your home, and replace any batteries that are running low. A good rule of thumb: if you can't remember the last time you checked them, now is the time.
🔒 Home Security Check
Summer often means more time away from home — vacations, weekend trips, and late evenings out. Do a quick walkthrough of your home's security: make sure all door and window locks are functioning properly, consider using timers on interior lights, and if you've been meaning to look into a video doorbell or security camera, summer is a great time to get that set up.
🧯 Fire Extinguisher Check
Do you know where all your fire extinguishers are — and when they were last inspected? Make sure you have one in the kitchen and near any outdoor cooking areas, that the pressure gauge is in the green, and that everyone in the household knows how to use it.
