Winter tips

1. Remove the screens from storm window frames and install storm windows.
   

2. Storm windows help reduce the cost to heat your home and help prevent windowsills from rotting.
   

3. Clean out gutters and downspouts.

   

   
   

4. Cleaning debris and fallen leaves reduces the chances of an ice dam forming. One method is to spray water down the downspouts to wash away leaves and other debris. Consider placing gutter screens over gutters. Extreme caution should be exercised when working on or around the roof.
   

5. Insulate pipes in your home's crawl spaces and attic.
   

6. These exposed pipes are most susceptible to freezing. Remember: the more insulation you use, the better protected your pipes will be.
   

7. Familiarize responsible family members with the main gas valve and other appliance valves.
   

8. If you are unsure of the location and operation of these valves, contact a professional.
   

9. Clean the clothes dryer exhaust duct, damper and space under the dryer.
   

10. Poor maintenance allows lint to build up in the exhaust duct and may cause a fire.
    

11. Make sure all electrical holiday decorations have tight connections.
    

12. If possible, use 3-prong plugs and cords. The use of 2-prong adapters, which permit 3-prong plugs to be used in 2-prong outlets, don’t always provide grounding to protect against shock. Unplug decorations when not in use.
    

13. Use of extension cords should be temporary.
    

14. To help reduce the chances of overheating, electric cords, including extension cords, should never be bundled together or run under rugs and carpet.
    

15. Check the attic for adequate ventilation.
    

16. Check the exterior wall to be sure the ceiling insulation is not blocking the outside air from the soffit vents from getting into the attic. Make sure the attic has plenty of vents. Caution should be taken in walking in all attic spaces that are unfinished.
    

17. Clean the kitchen exhaust hood and air filter.
    

18. Keeping this clean of cooking grease will help keep a stovetop fire from spreading.
    

19. Check water hoses on the clothes washer, refrigerator ice maker and dishwasher for cracks and bubbles.
    

20. Replace hoses that show signs of leaking.
    

21. Test all ground-fault-circuit-interrupter (GFCI) outlets.
    

22. These need to be tripped and reset once a month. If they do not trip or reset, have the outlet changed by a professional. These types of outlets are required around wet areas like bathrooms and kitchens to offer protection against shock.