If you live in an area that is cold and can get snow in the winter, there are some things you want to do beforehand to prepare your home and property.

For starters, check the trees on your property. If there are any branches or limbs that are cracking or decaying, cut them off. The weight of snow can break them off, and this could be dangerous to your home or a person working underneath. Getting a generator for the property is not a bad idea. It’s a nice way to keep warm until the power is back on.

Clean out your gutters. These can get packed with leaves during autumn. Adding snow and ice to that can lead to them being pulled down and causing roof damage.

Fireplaces add warmth and coziness during the cold season, but make sure to do some maintenance before using them. Inspect the gasket around the door if there is one. Have your chimney swept to prevent a chimney fire. Make sure your smoke and carbon monoxide detectors work well.

Turn off outdoor faucets. Insulate pipes that are in unheated areas such as crawlspaces, the basement, or the garage.