People who are used to the winter weather sometimes take things for granted. They feel confident that they can protect themselves well when the cold months arrive.
But it’s always best to be prepared even before the winter sets in. Protecting yourself is the first defense against sickness and there are certain steps to take to ensure that you and your family are safe. Making sure that your home is well maintained and sturdy should also be a priority as the risks of fire and theft are on the rise during this season.
Preventing Fire
Statistics show that most residential fires take place during winter, according to a report from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). The National Fire Protection Association also revealed that the top three days for home fires resulting from the use of candles are Christmas Day, New Year’s Eve and New Year’s Day.
Use of logs in the fireplace and wood in stoves can spell trouble particularly if you don’t clean up afterwards. As such, experts suggest using certain wood types only for the fireplace preferably oak, ash and maple. Avoid using old holiday trees because they can start unsafe flames.
It would also be a good idea to first check your smoke detectors and carbon monoxide detectors in your home to ensure that they are working properly.
It is a must for homeowners as w ell to have their chimneys and stoves inspected by a licensed professional tradesman before the winter comes. Another important thing to keep in mind is to have your furnace and boiler serviced once every year at the very least.
Avoiding Theft
Theft is commonplace during winter time owing to the fact that many families travel out of town to celebrate the holidays. People with criminal intentions take this opportunity to break into homes with no occupants.
Another reason why thieves target homes because of packages left at the doosteps and front porches when the families are away during Christmas time and New Year’s Eve or New Year’s Day. Shipping firms recommend then that those expecting packages should have them shipped to the office or delivered but left on the back area of the house or side porch, if there’s any.
Maintaining Your Home
Proper maintenance of a home can lead to huge savings in your electricity bills. Sealing the gaps around door frames and windows should be done to keep the air inside. Investing in quality sealants including caulk and foam is ideal.
The roof gutters should not be forgotten as they have to be cleared of debris including leaves. This step of clearing the gutter will ensure that your roof and its siding remain in good condition.
A final step to take is to check that your attic has proper insulation. With the constant heating and freezing that take place inside your home, you need to make sure that your roof is in top shape to prevent any ice buildup.
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