Whether you live in a single-family home or association managed multi-unit building make sure you live in a safe, secure and protected environment.  Start off the New Year properly, review the following short list of home safety tips:

  • Attic & basement - insulate where needed to keep heating cost down
  • Roof - inspect that all shingles are in tact
  • Pipes - insulate all pipes and water lines to prevent freezing, shutoff valves to outside faucets and water lines
  • HVAC - inspect units prior to use, clean from debris 
  • Gutters & downspouts - remove all debris from home exterior, repair as needed
  • Windows - inpsect that all close and open properly and check for drafts
  • Doors - inspect that all exterior doors open and close and are insulated properly
  • Smoke detectors – should be installed on every level outside sleeping quarters and check batteries once a year
  • Carbon Monoxide detectors – must have proper ventilation and installed near bedrooms and serviced regularly
  • Kitchen safety – do not leave the kitchen when cooking and keep a fire extinguisher near
  • Electrical safety – do not hide cords under rugs, do not overload circuits and use plug-in surge protectors
  • Hazardous materials – keep all cleaning supplies, insect killers and other chemicals and poisonous liquids in proper storage areas away from children and pets
  • Fire escape plan – clearly discuss and practice family fire drills. Each family member should know what to do in case of a fire and where to meet
  • Home security – install deadbolt locks and motion lights, trim bushes around windows and do not hide house keys near the front door
  • Safety numbers – keep emergency phone numbers near phones or on the refrigerator, remember to include police, fire, ambulance, poison control, family doctor, hospital and veterinarian

Have any other sources inspected by a professional, especially in older homes due to that most may be out of code.  Regularly check batteries and small and large appliances to ensure they are working properly. 

There is so much more you can do to improve your home's safety, so make the most of the upcoming holidays by safeguarding yours.