The Homeowner's Guide to a Safe and Fun-Filled Fall for the Family

The Homeowner's Guide to A SAFE & FUN-FILLED FALL FOR THE FAMILY As the trees turn shades of red and orange, the crisp cool air reminds us that fall is just around the corner. With many holidays and family visits coming up, it's important to keep safe as well as save money. Keep these tips in mind to stay safe and make sure your home is autumn-ready so the season is delightful for the whole family! KEEP UP MAINTENANCE INDOORS Schedule heater maintenance... Have a professional service your heating system so it runs more efficiently and lasts longer. Check your chimney... Have a professional inspect and sweep your chimney - it should take only 90 minutes and cost $150 to $300. Close your storm windows... Make sure all edges of the outer windows are caulked and that no water can get trapped below and cause damage. Always double-check that the outer pane is up and the inner pane is down. AVOID OUTDOOR HAZARDS Turn off water to hoses and sprinklers.. When the temperature dips below freezing, residual water will freeze and could burst pipes. FASHON Clean out your gutters.. Once the leaves fall from the trees, be sure to clear out the fallen leaves and debris from gutters to avoid ice dams, which can cause leaks along the roof of your home. Use ladders carefully... Be sure to set up your ladder on a level, firm surface; climb and descend slowly; and be cautious of overhead power lines and other hazards. FALL DRIVER TIPS Change wiper blades and keep your wiper fluid full. In the upcoming months, your windshield wipers and fluid are used much more, so it's best to keep a spare container of wiper fluid in your car just in case! Create safe driving scenarios. Skip carpooling if your new driver will be driving to school. Just one passenger increases a teen's crash risk by 48 percent. 8. Brought to You by Sources: http://www.consumerreports.org/cro/2012/10/be-prepared-for-the-cold-winter-ahead/index.htm http://www.consumerreports.org/cro/news/2009/09/don-t-take-a-tumble-while-performing-fall-maintenance/index.htm http://www.thisoldhouse.com/toh/article/0,476717,00.html http://www.bankrate.com/finance/auto/5-easy-diy-car-maintenance-moves-for-fall-2.aspx http://www.nsc.org/safety_home/SafetyObservances/Documents/Back%20to%20School/Teen%20Driving_2012.pdf ARBELLA INSURANCE