Latest News

As the temperatures drop the threat to your home rises. Here are a few things you can do to prepare for the drop in temperature outside. 

PROTECT YOUR PIPES
Insulate your water lines, especially ones that run near the exterior walls of your home, because they’re most likely to freeze when temperatures drop. You can also let your faucets drip to prevent them from freezing. 

BLOCK OUT THE COLD
Use weather stripping or caulk around doors or windows to eliminate cold air from seeping into your home. 

INSPECT YOUR CHIMNEY
Have a professional inspection of your chimney each year before you use your fireplace. Critters like to make nests inside chimneys and it’s always best to make sure the chimney is clear to prevent smoke from getting backed up inside and entering your home. 

CARBON MONOXIDE DETECTOR 
Install a carbon monoxide detector in your home. Carbon monoxide is invisible, odorless and tasteless and is deadly. According to the Center for Disease Control, “Each year, more than 400 Americans die from unintentional carbon monoxide poisoning not linked to fires.” 

CLEAN YOUR GUTTERS
Some say this may be the most important part of prepping your home for the winter season, because if leaves are left piled up it could cause a leak in your roof or other damage. You can install gutter guards to avoid cleaning your gutters. 

SPACE HEATER SAFETY
Never leave a space heater unattended and make sure that it is at least 3 feet away from the wall or other objects. 

CHECK BATTERIES
Make sure to change the batteries in your smoke detectors and carbon monoxide detectors. 

ICE, ICE BABY
Have ice scrapers on hand and allow extra time in the morning to prepare your vehicle for the road. 

PROTECT YOUR PLANTS 
You should bring your potted plants inside before temperatures drop below 45 degrees Fahrenheit.

TURN OFF AUTOMATIC SPRINKLERS
This tip is one that many people forget about, but if automatic sprinklers are left on, they could create a big problem in your neighborhood or at your business. The spigots can freeze if water is left inside of them, and the water can also freeze on the roadway or your driveway causing a slippery mess for walkers and drivers alike. 

Content sourced from: Lowes.com, Habitat for Humanity , Center for Disease Control and Forbes.com