10/29/2025
🍁 Fall Prepping your home 🏠
✅1. Clear gutters and downspouts
Remove leaves, twigs, and other debris to prevent clogs. Clean gutters ensure water drains away from your home’s foundation and help prevent ice dams during winter.
✅2. Inspect the roof
Check for damaged, loose, or missing shingles that could lead to leaks once snow or ice arrives. Be sure to inspect flashings and seals around vents and chimneys for cracks or gaps.
✅3. Prune trees and shrubs
Trim back dead or overhanging branches that could break and cause damage during a winter storm. Proper pruning also promotes healthier growth in spring.
✅4. Repair walkways and driveways
Fix cracks in sidewalks and driveways before temperatures drop. Repair any loose steps or railings to reduce the risk of slips and falls on icy surfaces.
✅5. Store lawn equipment and outdoor furniture
Drain fuel from your lawnmower and other power tools before storing them for the season. Clean and cover outdoor furniture and grills, or move them into storage to protect them from moisture and freezing temperatures.
✅6. Winterize pipes and outdoor faucets
Disconnect, drain, and store all garden hoses. Shut off the water supply to exterior faucets and cover them with insulated faucet protectors to prevent freezing and bursting pipes.
🛑Safety Checks
💨 1. Test smoke and carbon monoxide detectors
Colder weather and the use of heating equipment increase the risk of fire and carbon monoxide buildup. Test all detectors monthly and replace the batteries at the start of daylight saving time to ensure they’re functioning properly.
🔥 2. Restock fire safety supplies
Check the expiration dates on all fire extinguishers and make sure they’re easily accessible. Keep one on each level of your home, especially near the kitchen and garage.
