How you can prepare your home for winter

 This is a sponsored post. 

Many of us can get through the winter season and holidays without experiencing any safety-related incidents in our home. The majority of us have common sense and good old fashion luck thankfully but despite the hectic end-of-the-year schedules, packed calenders of a few holiday get-togethers, or trying to get last-minute wrapping done, there might be a few things that happen that could have been prevented. The fact is, this time of year is when safety-related incidents tend to increase. Home fires grow in numbers and so it’s important to really get your home ready for the winter months, especially during this time of year.

 

1. Check The Lights - We all love to go visit neighborhoods with festive holiday lights and decorations. From traditional icings to lightened garland, the more modern LED string lights bring a comforting and warm feeling. However, before you string up the bulbs on your own home, closely inspect them before you begin decorating because most are not designed or priced to last year after year. Replace any broken or loose bulbs that you see. When it comes to hanging outdoor lights, you want to make sure to use a GFCI outlet or a ground fault circuit interrupter. Also, inspect your extension cords and plugs. These items can also wear over time. Spot any signals when you turn the lights on and look for any blinking or if any areas of lights go out.

 

2. Be Careful With Space Heaters - Having a space heater is comfort and keeps us feeling safe. However, there should be basic rules that are followed by loved ones to keep you safe when using a space heater. For instance, don’t place a space heater within 3 feet of any flammable object including curtains or bedsheets. Never leave a space heater unattended and keep children and pets from getting too close. If you have an electric space heater, don’t overload it in a circuit and if you are unsure, don’t plug it in or ask a family member of a local fire department for guidance. If you are trying to warm up and don’t want to have a space heater, you can always purchase slippers, have rugs under your bed or family room and put up big plush throw pillows.

 

Image: Greater American Roofing

 

3. Have Your Roof Properly Inspected - When it comes to winter safety, you want to make sure your roof is ready as well because it is the backbone of your home and keeping those you love safe. If you live in Kentucky, a local company to call is Greater American Roofing. They are a full service contracting company in the Kentucky area and supply years of reliable service for customers all over the state. They are dedicated to installing only the very best quality priced roof. They employ and train their staff who are committed to exceeding their customer’s expectations and concentrate on meeting any needs that are asked of. They warranty their work and most significantly can provide you with timely results. If you are looking for a roof inspection in the Louisville area, the professional can install your new roof as soon as possible.

 

4. Bring Outdoor Furniture Inside: If you have a basement or shed with some extra storage, you’ll want to use it to bring in your outdoor furniture that you aren’t going to be using now that the weather has changed. Bring in any of those large cushions, tables, and chairs that you enjoyed sitting on to help keep them looking their best and not getting mold, snow, or completely torn apart by snowstorms or ice. Having your furniture inside will keep the longevity of the season after season thanks to your care. This also can help minimize space outside for your kids to run around and play.

I’m sure there are many more tips to get your home ready for the winter and cold months. Add plush pillows, blankets, and slippers for yourself, family, or guests that might stop by. Keep your home comfortably heated by being mindful of those space heaters or candles if you light or turn them on. Do your best to stay alert, enjoy the holiday season and spend it with those you can during such a hectic and busy year for all of us.