Small tasks every homeowner should do this December

It’s nearly the end of the year and as the temperatures drop and we spend more time indoors, there are a few small tasks every homeowner should complete to prepare for the new year.

Clean your light bulbs, check for burnt out lights, and dust fixtures.
Sometimes these things get overlooked. However, they collect a lot of dust, grime and dirt over the year. By cleaning your lightbulbs, you are adding more light to your house as the days get shorter, and you’ll save money. A dirty and dusty lightbulb sheds less light than clean ones. So wipe the bulbs with a cloth dampened by a mix of few drops of dish soap, one quarter cup of vinegar and 2 cups of warm water. If you have a lampshade or glass cloche over your lights now is the time to dust, or wash them. You’ll notice a difference in light when they are finally cleaned!

Test your smoke detectors and carbon monoxide detectors
It’s important to check your detectors 2-3 times a year to protect yourself and your family. In 2018, there were 91 fire-related deaths in Ontario alone. Pressing the test button on your device will tell you if the alarm sound is working, but it doesn’t verify if the sensor is detecting smoke. To check if your device is detecting smoke, light a match, blow it out and hold the smoking end near the device. If the alarm starts beeping, you will know your device is working. If it’s not working, you may need to replace the batteries in your smoke detector. Make sure to replace the batteries at least once a year. Many reasons smoke detectors fail is because the batteries are dead. Don’t forget to check the expiry date on your device to keep yourself and your family safe from a potential fire.

Pack a home emergency kit
Prepare for power outages and weather-related emergencies by creating an accessible emergency kit. Store items that will come in handy during a power outage such as: bottled water, a hand crank radio, flashlight, extra batteries, portable charger for your phone, solar power charger, warm blankets, sleeping bags, non-perishable food, candles, matches and a first aid kit. Add more to this list to match your family’s needs, but it’s always good to be prepared in case of emergencies.

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