Today is the winter solstice,…so winter has officially arrived. It’s already been quite cold, so we can expect that to continue over the next few months. As you hibernate indoors during the cold weather, here are some winter safety tips to keep in mind if you live in MA.
Indoor Air Quality
Your home may have less ventilation during the winter months since you do not leave your windows and doors open. Therefore, it’s important to keep indoor air quality in mind. Here are a few things that you can do:
- Change the air filter on your heating system frequently.
- Use less toxic chemicals for cleaning and other household uses.
- Run an air purifier.
- Install detectors for carbon monoxide and other harmful gases.
Fire Safety
If you use space heaters in your home, fire prevention should be on your mind. Never leave a space heater running and unattended. Keep them a safe distance from flammable objects such as window curtains. Consider using a new system with enhanced safety features such as automatic shutoff and cool-to-the-touch shells.
Fireplaces are another concern. Again, avoid leaving a fire burning unattended. Clean your chimney at the beginning of the season. Based on how frequently you use it, additional maintenance may be required during the season.
Weather Safety
We’ve had some wintry weather, but we can surely expect more to come. During and after snow storms, be sure to promptly clear and treat your walkways to prevent slip and fall accidents. After a big storm or wet and heavy snow, you may also want to clear off your lower roofs using a snow broom. For safety reasons, you should never attempt to climb onto the roof or use a ladder outdoors. Focus on areas that you can easily reach while standing on the ground. Also, remember not to stand directly under the area where the snow is likely to fall from the roof.
More Winter Safety Tips for MA Homes
With a little effort, you can make this a safer winter for you and your family. For more winter safety tips and other important homeowner information, follow our blog or like our FaceBook page.
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