Winter Chore Checklist

With work, school, family and all your daily responsibilities, getting your home in order for winter can be overwhelming.  Here are some items to check off your list:

Disconnect hoses from the  outside faucet.  Also consider purchasing an insulator to place over the faucet for added protection.  Don't forget to put the hose away for next year.

Have the fireplace and chimney professionally serviced.  Winter means fireplace season!  Nothing beats a roaring fire on a chilly evening.  Small animals, leaves and left over soot and debris can prevent proper ventilation and cause a fire if left ignored.

Make sure gutters are properly fastned and no branches are touching the roof/house.  Heavy snow and ice can cause extensive damage.  Take a look at the power lines too to make sure no branches and limbs are touching, if so you may need to give them a trim.

Fire extinguishers....The holiday season normally goes hand in hand with cooking, holiday lights, decorations and Christmas trees which all can present a fire hazard.  It is important to have a fire extinguisher and make sure you know how to operate it. 

Check window and door insulation.  Weather stripping and caulk make a big difference in your overall comfort and heating bill.

Prepare!  Gather the flashlights, spare batteries, emergency candles,  battery operated radio, shovel  and ice melt and be ready for the first blast of Old Man Winter!