To Dos: Are you really ready for Winter?

November is upon us and we're still holding our breath, hoping that the snowy wintery weather will hold off just a little longer.  If you haven't already prepared your home for that yucky word SNOW, its never too late to get your home ready for the season, you'll be thankful that you did.

Your To Do Checklist

1. Remove the last of the fall leaves.  Aim to fit in one more fall raking and gutter cleaning before the snow. 
2. Inspect the exterior of your home and cover any gaps that may be large enough for a mouse to enter, it doesn't take much for these little critters to sneak in!
3. Check doors and windows for leaks or deterioration of caulkings, weatherstripping or door sweeps. Replace and touch up as needed.
4. Stock up for winter.  Take the time now to stock up on winter gear and supplies means less stress when that first heavy snow fall hits.
5. Check snow shovels and ice scrapers; replace as needed.
6. If you use a fireplace or wood stove, order your firewood and store it for easy access. There's nothing worse than hauling wood through the snow!
7. Pick up a bag of ice melt to have on hand to combat icy sidewalks or steps.
8. Restock Emergency kits for cars and your home.
9. If you use a snow blower, have it serviced and fueled up, ready to go.
10. If your home has a back up power generator, check that its working properly.

Don't forget the inside of your home!

1. Remove window screens, vacuum them and store in a safe place for the winter.
2. Inspect opening windows making sure they are sealing properly.  Wipe off weatherstripping with a damp cloth making sure it is clear of obstructions from debris or bugs that might keep it from sealing tightly.
3. Change furnace filters and make sure your heating system is working properly.

These simple tasks will have you breathing a sigh of relief when that winter weather blows in to stay. Just think, once these tasks are out of the way...you'll be free to start preparing for the Christmas rush!