Fall Safety Hazards and Tips for the Home
October 5, 2017
It’s that time of year when the leaves start to fall and pumpkin spice lattes make a comeback. For many, fall is a fun-filled season, but with the colder weather comes additional safety hazards around the home. Below are three tips to ensure your home is protected, and ready for winter.
Clean up leaves and trees
Many of us like to watch the leaves change colors and fall to the ground. It is equally important to clean up the mess that they make. Leaves can get caught in gutters, and prevent proper home drainage. Long-term consequences include leaks from the ceiling and walls, and significant property infrastructure damage. It’s also important to cut any dead branches from the trees as they can potentially fall and damage roofs, cars, and yards.
Use safe heating practices
Whether it’s during the fall or winter, proper heating is important to combat the cold weather. Check your furnace at the beginning of the fall season to make sure it is working properly before the cold weather hits. Never use a stove or an oven to heat a home, as it is extremely dangerous. If you still find your home to be chilly after utilizing the furnace, considering buying a proper space heater. There are many approved space heaters on the market that will keep everyone warm and safe. While operating the space heater, be sure that nothing is placed within 3 feet of it.
Winterize your home
As legendary classic rock band Fleetwood Mac always said, “don’t stop thinking about tomorrow.” Taking proactive measures to secure your home now for the winter ahead can save you both time and money. These measures include:
- Changing furnace filters
- Turning down your water heater
- Installing storm doors and windows
- Boosting insulation
- Insulating your pipes
- Checking for cracks and infrastructural damage to pipes
- Properly sealing air ducts