Home security

• Do install deadbolt locks, window grates, bars, and smoke/fire/burglar alarms.
• Do install exterior lights with motion detectors out of easy reach.
• Do trim back trees and shrubs from around doors and windows.
• Do establish a routine to assure regular locking and activation of alarm systems.
• Do notify police if suspicious strangers are seen in your neighborhood.
• Do arrange to have mail stopped or picked up while away for extended periods of time.
• Do stop newspaper delivery when gone for any long period of time.
• Do ask a friend or neighbor to dispose of circulars that are left while you are away.
• Do ask dependable neighbors and police when you plan to be away for a long time.
• Do not give personal information to unidentified telephone callers.
• Do not announce personal plans in ads or public notices.
• Do not leave house keys with vehicle keys in a commercial parking lot with an attendant.
• Do not “hide” keys in “secret” locations outside your home.

Pool safety

• Construct fencing around the pool area to prevent unauthorized access and use.
• Never leave young children unsupervised – even for a few seconds.
• Keep children away from pool filter devices.
• Keep electrical devices a safe distance away from wet surfaces.
• Regularly check the area for dangerous articles and potential hazards.
• Stay out of the pool during rain or lightning storms.
• Don’t swim alone or allow others to swim alone.
• Assure that all pool users know how to swim or are accompanied by someone who does know how.
• Don’t swim when tired or immediately after eating.

Outdoor grills

• Wear a heavy apron and oven mitts when barbequing.
• Use only specially designed fluids to start; never add more fuel if the fire is too low.
• Keep grills on a level surface away from children, the house, garage, and landscaping.
• Soak coals with water before disposing them in the trash.
• Store fuel cylinders outside away from the house.
• Check valves and hoses for leaks regularly and just prior to each use.
• In case of burns, run cool water over the injury for 10-15 minutes and seek medical attention.

Lawn mowers

• Check the lawn to remove any dangerous material prior to using your lawn mower.
• Read the owner’s manual before using your mower for the first time.
• Check the blade and wiring for safety hazards prior to use.
• Wear clothing that will protect your body from harm.
• Always start the motor outdoors.
• Never leave a mower running and unattended.

Winter weather

• Trim trees and remove dead branches.
• Remove debris from gutters.
• Check smoke and fire alarms for proper operation.
• Check for adequate insulation in attics, basements and walls.
• Repair and insulate pipes.
• Annually service furnaces, boilers, and chimneys.
• Maintain a minimum temperature inside your home of 65 degrees.
• Consider hiring a licensed contractor to survey your home for structural damage.
• Have someone check your home on a regular basis while you are away for an extended time.

Holiday decorations

• Keep live trees indoors away from heat and flame.
• Provide adequate water daily to indoor live trees.
• Remove trees promptly if they show signs of drying out.
• Use caution to prevent overloading electrical circuits with too many lights.
• Turn off all decorative electrical lights when not at home and when retiring for the night.
• Have an emergency escape plan known by all family members in the event of a fire.

Mold hazards

• Install exhaust fans in kitchens and bathrooms.
• Use air conditioners and dehumidifiers to maintain humidity level at 30% to 60%.
• Don’t let water accumulate under house plants.
• Don’t install carpets in damp areas such as bathrooms and basements.
• Watch for indications of mold growth, such as musty smells or watermarks on walls & ceilings.
• Remove mold promptly by cleaning thoroughly with bleach and water.

Remodeling

• Contact your insurance agent to increase coverage to reflect rebuilding costs.
• Keep receipts of additional purchases and add them to your home inventory.
• Assure that contractors and sub-contractors have adequate insurance.
• Ask to see a copy of the contractor’s workers compensation insurance coverage.

Dog bites