ANNUAL HOME CHECKLIST

Attic:

  • Look for openings which could be a way in for bats or squirrels.
  • Inspect insulation, vents, and rafters.
  • Check for roof leaks
Windows:
  • Check for loose, broken, or cracked panes.
  • Check locks and sash cords.
  • Inspect sills.
  • Inspect weatherstripping.
Bathroom:
  • Check for drips in faucets and shower heads.
  • Check water pressure.
  • Check toilet flush valves.
Kitchen:
  • Check appliance wiring.
  • Clean ventilator fan.
  • Check cupboard for signs of rodents or insects.
Furnace:
  • Check pipes, flues, and firebox for leaks.
  • Inspect all blower belts and blades.
  • Replace furnace filter.
  • Lubricate motor.
Electrical:
  • Check all switches, outlets, cords, alarms, inside/outside lights, etc.
  • Replace batteries in battery-powered smoke and CO2 detectors.
Basement:
  • Check drains, traps, and waste pipes.
  • Check operation of main water supply shut-off.
  • Inspect for leaks, especially at junction of floor and walls.
  • Check insulation of cold water pipes.
Decking:
  • Check for mildew/algae, nailhead rusting, and loose boards.
  • Inspect decking for cracking, warping, peeling, or rotting.
  • Check for pulled up or missing nails.
  • Inspect for ice and rock salt damage.
This how to project is provided as a guideline only. Any do-it-yourself activity involves some risk and the reader remains responsible for the selection and use of tools, materials, and methods.
 


HOME SAFETY CHECKLIST

Slips and Falls

  • All stairway handrails are firmly attached and stairwells are well-lit.
  • Safety gates closed across stairways in homes with small children.
  • Stair coverings are secured anchored.
  • Safe step stool available for reaching high shelving.
  • Scatter rugs lay flat and are skid-proof or have a skid-proof mat underneath them.
  • Entrance ways, outdoor walkways, and halls are well-lit.
  • Night-lights placed en route to the bathroom for nighttime use.
  • Bathtubs have non-skid strips or suction mats in them.
  • Windows are equipped with safety features so children cannot fall out.
Fires, Burns, and Electricity
  • Lamp, extension, and telephone cords are placed out of traffic areas.
  • Electrical sockets are all the three-prong, grounded type.
  • Able to turn off electrical, gas, and water sources to your home.
  • Fuses/circuit breakers are labeled to the outlets and appliances they protect.
  • Light switches are all in good working order.
  • Wall switches and outlets have safe coverplates.
  • All appliance cords and extension cords are in good condition.
  • Small appliances (hair dryers, coffee pots, shavers, etc.) are unplugged when not in use.
  • Flame-retardant sleepwear and bedding are used for children.
  • Furnace is cleaned and serviced yearly.
  • Smoking in bed or while lying down is prohibited and proper ashtrays are used.
  • Chimney and smoke-pipe cleaned yearly.
  • Fireplace functions properly and is adequately screened.
  • Furnace and hot water heater are clear of flammable materials.
  • Portable heaters are in a safe location away from flammable materials.
  • Portable heaters and fans are protected with screening to prevent touching coils or blades.
  • Matches are kept away from children.
  • Fire escape plan is in place and has been practiced.
  • Smoke detectors are installed, at least one per floor.
  • Smoke, fire, and carbon monoxide detectors are tested monthly.
  • Fire extinguisher is charged and conveniently located.
Poisoning
  • Household chemicals are stored out of reach and sight of small children.
  • Drugs and medicines are out of reach and sight of small children and have child-proof caps.
  • Paint, paint-thinner, pesticides, and gasoline stored out of the house and away from heat.
  • Alcoholic beverages are out of reach and sight of children.
Suffocations
  • Baby crib prevents baby's head or clothing from becoming caught.
  • Toys are suitable for children's age, are in good condition, and are safe.
  • Small or sharp items are kept out of reach of children.
  • Cords to mini-blinds are child-safe and out of reach.
  • Plastic bags are kept out of reach of children.
Misc. Hazards
  • All doors and windows close and latch properly.
  • Exterior doors are secured with a deadbolt for security.
  • Pool and play areas are fenced.
  • Firearms are kept unloaded and out of reach of children.
  • First-aid kit is well-stocked and immediately available.
  • Emergency numbers are posted by all telephones.
This how to project is provided as a guideline only. Any do-it-yourself activity involves some risk and the reader remains responsible for the selection and use of tools, materials, and methods.

 
 
 
 

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