Autumn officially begins on September 20th, but it’s not too early to begin preparing your home and family for the changes in the season. Autumn often means children returning to school, upcoming holidays, and brisk weather, but it can mean a time where homeowners face unique challenges from seasonal changes.
Before the change of the season, reevaluate your home and prepare for the seasonal changes that colder months will bring. Wherever you are this autumn, you can prepare your home and family for the seasonal changes by following the five autumn home safety tips below!
Inspect Smoke Alarms
Smoke and carbon monoxide detectors can be life-saving devices in the home. According to the U.S. Fire Administration, more than one third of home fire deaths result in fires in which no smoke alarms are present.
Smoke alarms should be replaced every ten years, even if they appear functional. To check the age of your smoke alarms, detach from the wall or ceiling and look at the back portion: a date of manufacture should be listed. Every bedroom needs a working smoke alarm and it is wise to add smoke alarms to every level of your home, including the basement!
Watch Where You Walk
Wet leaves and debris can make driveways and sidewalks especially slippery for pedestrians. As a property owner or possessor of a property, you have a duty to maintain the property and ensure it is reasonably safe.
“Failure to warn visitors or patrons about a known, unsafe condition makes the property owner liable for any serious injuries that result from these hazardous conditions,” notes Houston injury lawyer Andrew Kumar, “slip and fall accidents happen quickly.” To protect the safety of your loved ones and other property visitors, keep walkways clear, especially after storms or heavy rainfall.
Add Lights
Adding lights to your home can do more than add ambience! Adding outdoor lighting to your home can increase visibility and prevent injuries or property damage, especially when the days become shorter and the nights become longer.
Sensor lights can also help prevent any unwanted visitors, both animal and human, in the odd hours.
Use Caution with a Ladder
Ladders are dangerous anytime of the year, but are especially dangerous during rainy seasons. Use extra caution with a ladder to ensure you don’t slip or fall. Place the ladder on a sturdy, dry, and even surface prior to standing. Ensure the bottoms of your shoes are dry and that the ladder is fully functioning before you add your body weight.
Service Your Furnace
Prior to the gradual drop in temperature, consider having your furnace served by a professional. Hiring a professional to examine your furnace can ensure it is in good working order and that there are no leaks. It is also important to ensure nothing is obstructing your furnace, especially anything that is flammable. Regularly clean the area around the furnace to ensure pet hair, lint, and dust don’t linger!
Home Safety for All Seasons
By using these five autumn home safety tips, you can ensure the well-being of your loved ones and anyone who comes to visit your home this season. While each season brings its own unique challenges, safety should always be the primary concern year round. Enjoy the change in season and stay safe!
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