Prepare Your Home Before the First Hard Frost

September is a good time to complete small household tasks before colder temperatures arrive. Preparing now can prevent rushed outdoor work, unexpected repair costs and unnecessary slips when frost or snow appears.

Begin outside by checking that walkways, steps and railings are stable. Remove loose garden hoses, planters or decorations that could become tripping hazards. If an outdoor light has burned out, replace it while the weather is still comfortable.

Look at your home’s entrances next. Make sure weather stripping is secure and that doors open and close properly. Place a sturdy mat inside each entrance, but avoid lightweight rugs that can slide or curl at the edges.

This is also a good time to locate your snow shovel, ice melt and winter footwear. Keeping these items near the door means you will not have to search for them after the first snowfall. If snow removal is difficult for you, arrange help with a family member, neighbour or local service before demand increases.

Inside the home, test smoke alarms and carbon-monoxide alarms according to the manufacturer’s directions. Replace expired alarms or weak batteries as required. Avoid using ovens, barbecues or outdoor heaters as indoor heat sources.

Finally, prepare a short contact list containing family, neighbours, medical contacts and home-repair services. Keep one copy near your telephone and another in an easy-to-find household folder.

You do not have to complete everything in one day. Choose one or two small jobs at a time and ask for assistance with ladders, heavy lifting or anything that feels unsafe.

This week’s action: Walk around your home with a notepad and identify three things to address before colder weather arrives.

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