It’s time to prepare your home to withstand the weather changes…

As the season changes, it’s the perfect time to take care of the little things that can make a big difference for you and your home. Most of the tasks listed below are well within the average person’s ability. But even if you choose to have a professional handle them, it’s worth the expense. You’ll save money — and maybe even your life.

Here’s the checklist:
• Get your mind in the gutters. Inspect and clean gutters and downspouts.
• Button up your overcoat. Seal gaps and cracks around windows and doors with weather-stripping and caulk.
• Get on top of roof problems. Inspect your roof for damaged or curled shingles, corroded flashing, or leaky vents.
• Walk the walks (and drives). Take steps to repair damaged sidewalks, driveways, and steps.
• Chill out. Drain and winterize outdoor faucets and irrigation systems.
• Freshen your filter. Clean or replace dirty furnace filters.
• Give your furnace a physical. Have a professional inspect your heating system.
• Gather round the hearth. Check fireplaces for soot or creosote build-up. Better yet, schedule a visit from a reputable chimney sweep.
• Keep the humidifier humming. Clean the plates or pads to ensure efficient operation.
• Head-off gas problems. If you have a gas-fired room heater, have it inspected by a pro. Also, perform any routine maintenance recommended by the maker.
• Keep the wood fires burning brightly. Wood stoves are making a comeback. To avoid a deadly situation, be sure to inspect yours before firing it up.
• Keep your family safe at home. A home safety check should be an annual ritual in every household. Test smoke and CO2 monitors, inspect (or install) fire extinguishers, review fire escape plans, and rid your home of old newspapers and other fire hazards.