Spring Home Safety Checklist
“Do what you can, with what you have, where you are.” ―Theodore Roosevelt
Time to start your spring home safety and maintenance projects. Here are some important items to check off your to-do list:
Test your carbon monoxide and smoke detectors. Now’s a good time to ensure these important safety protections work well. Dust both the carbon monoxide and smoke detectors with a dry cloth. Use the test button to check that they work, and replace batteries over six months old. If an entire unit is beyond its printed expiration date, replace it.
Check and replace flashlight batteries. Springtime means thunderstorms and the potential for power outages in many areas of the US. Ensure all your flashlights have fresh batteries so you’re prepared for severe weather.
Check your fire extinguishers. Every home should have at least one fire extinguisher. Most extinguishers have a long shelf life, but be sure to check the expiration date. If it has not expired, check the pressure gauge to make sure it’s in the proper range. Also, keep your extinguishers where they are easily accessible if you need them.
Clean out household chemicals and cleaning supplies. Go through your cleaning supplies and other household chemicals to check for leaking containers and things you no longer use or need. Be sure to dispose of them properly and according to any local regulations. Be sure that everything you keep is being stored properly.
Clean out medicine cabinets and first aid kits. Take an inventory of everything in your medicine cabinets and properly dispose of any outdated prescriptions and over-the-counter medications. While you’re at it, look through any first aid or emergency kits make sure to replace anything that’s been used, and dispose of anything that’s expired.
Clean out your washer, dryer, and other major appliances. Pull out your washer and dryer and clean underneath each, and surface clean both, too. Check the hoses on your washer for leaks. Use a vacuum hose attachment or a long, flexible brush to clean out the lint trap inlet and the vent pipe of the dryer. If your lint filter appears clogged, clean it with a nylon brush and water.
Replace furnace filters and clean air conditioning ducts. Ensure your air conditioner is in good working order by reviewing the user’s manual for the proper spring maintenance procedures. It’s also a good time to replace furnace filters.
Clean and secure windows and doors. Spring cleaning wouldn’t be complete without window cleaning. As you’re cleaning, check the locks and screens to make sure they’re in proper working order. Check the locks on all exterior doors, too.
Make repairs to decks and patios. Inspect your deck or patio for loose railings and boards, as well as raised nails or screws. Make any necessary repairs to ensure safety before you start enjoying the warmer weather.
Get your grill ready. Make sure your grill is clean and ready for barbecue season. If you have a gas grill, be sure to check all hoses and connections to ensure there are no leaks. Also, make sure that the handle on the lid is secure and that the igniter works.
Take stock of recreational equipment. Before you or your family use them, ensure all your playground equipment, bikes, skateboards, and other outdoor toys are in safe working order.
Inspect your roof and clean your gutters. Look for damage that could leak during heavy rains or worsen from heavy winds. Make any necessary repairs. Check and clean your rain gutters and downspouts as well to avoid foundation problems during the rainy season.
Inspect the interior of your home for mold. Mold often grows in bathrooms, laundry rooms, and wherever there is moisture. It has a distinct musty smell and appears as dark, fuzzy spots on surfaces. Mold can be hazardous to your health if it spreads. Clean any mold you find with bleach, and try to identify the underlying cause and remedy it.
Manage electrical cords throughout the household. As you clean each room, make sure power cords and extension cords don't present a tripping hazard or fire hazard. Inspect all cords for fraying or damage and get rid of any cord that is not safe. Electrical cords should not run under rugs or around doorframes; this can damage the cord and create a fire hazard.
Why Is Spring Home Maintenance Important?
The end of winter and the start of spring mean a return to warmer weather, outdoor activities, and, for many of us, spring cleaning! Spring cleaning can mean many things, but one of the most important reasons to spring clean is to take stock of your home and assess any problems or damage that arose over the winter.
It's also a great time to purge unwanted possessions and prepare your home for the coming of warmer weather. You might not enjoy spring cleaning and spring safety preparation, but it’s essential to prepare your home for warmer weather and ensure you and your family are safe. Proper spring safety activities can reduce the opportunities for injuries or accidents inside or outside your home. It also helps you minimize the chance of costly property damage as the warmer weather approaches.
Don’t Forget Your Basement and Yard
Basements can be a source of many problems but can sometimes be overlooked in a spring safety and cleaning regimen.
If your winter was particularly snowy or rainy, there may have been leaking or flooding in your basement that went unnoticed. Closely inspect your entire basement for signs of moisture, toxic mold, and foundation problems. If you find anything, call a professional to have it addressed immediately.
Attend to Your Yard
Some people consider landscaping an afterthought, but it’s an important part of spring cleaning and safety. Yard maintenance is, in fact, vital to keeping your home safe during the warmer months.
Trim trees to remove dead branches that are at risk of falling.
Clean up the debris that got buried under piles of snow.
Fill in any holes from animal activity.
Trim bushes.
Mow and treat your lawn.
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