If you are a homeowner, there are a few more items on that fall to-do list to prepare for the upcoming winter weather and even in order to plan into next spring.
1. Clean your gutters - make sure they are free from leaves and other debris in order to avoid potential flooding inside and damaged exteriors.
2. Repair driveway cracks - if water gets into cracks it can expand and widen the crack when it freezes, potentially causing a more expensive repair in the spring.
3. Drain outdoor faucets - we've all heard this time and again but it's a good reminder. This will prevent your pipes from bursting in any really cold winter weather.
4. Plant outdoor bulbs - while not strictly necessary, it's always wonderful to see signs of spring poking up through the ground after a long winter, and they continue to bloom year after year.
5. Bring in or cover outdoor furniture - although outdoor furniture is created to withstand the elements, you can lengthen the life of your furniture by protecting it as much as possible from harsh winter weather.
6. Fertilize your lawn - grass roots are still active in the winter, so fertilizer will prevent winter damage and help your grass turn green more quickly once spring arrives.
7. Check your furnace - have it professionally serviced and cleaned, and be sure to change your filter.
8. Clean windows and blinds - we all need light to thrive and feel good and it's not always easy to get that in winter. Cleaning your windows and blinds can allow more light into the house. Consider adding more lamps to low-light rooms.
9. Check your windows and doors for air leaks - if you can feel air coming in around your windows or doors, replace the weatherstripping or re-caulk to prevent cold air from coming into the house.
10. Test your smoke alarms - make sure all alarms are in working order and replace the batteries.
