Prepare Your Home for Winter

As the leaves turn and temperatures drop, it’s a reminder that winter is just around the corner. For many people, preparing the home for the colder months is not just about comfort—it’s about safety, health, and peace of mind. This is especially true for older adults, who may spend more time indoors during winter and rely heavily on their home as a comfortable place. Here are some important steps to consider when getting your home winter-ready:

1. Check your heating system
Have your furnace inspected and serviced before the cold weather sets in. Clean filters and proper maintenance help ensure your home stays warm and that your system runs efficiently. 

2. Seal drafts and insulate
Windows and doors are common culprits for heat loss. Adding weather stripping, or calking can make a noticeable difference in keeping your home warmer and lowering energy costs. Don’t forget to check attics and basements—extra insulation in these spaces can improve comfort throughout the home. Keep the animals out! It’s that time of year when critters are looking for dry comfy homes! Attics and crawlspaces should be checked! Seal, if signs of rodents, and you may need to hire a service to handle. 

3. Safety first: smoke and carbon monoxide detectors
With heating systems working overtime, winter is a critical time to test smoke alarms and carbon monoxide detectors. Replace batteries and confirm devices are in good working order.

4. Prevent slips and falls
Indoors, use non-slip mats at entrances where wet boots may track in water. Good lighting around entryways and staircases also helps reduce fall risks. Call your snow removal person now to ensure they will still be just a phone call away this year! 

5. Prepare for power outages
Winter storms can bring power interruptions. Having a few essentials on hand—flashlights, extra blankets, and non-perishable food—can make a stressful situation more manageable. If mobility or health needs make power outages especially challenging, speak with family or neighbours about a back-up plan.

6. Keep emergency contacts handy
Make a list of important phone numbers, such as family, neighbours, plumber, snow removal company, plumber, that can provide help immediately if needed. Having them visible by the phone or in your mobile contacts gives peace of mind. Don’t wait to call. 

7. Think ahead about comfort and connection
Winter can sometimes feel isolating, so it helps to prepare for both comfort and connection. Stock up on cozy favourites like blankets, warm slippers, and your go-to teas. Just as importantly, plan ways to stay connected—arrange regular phone calls, drop by your local seniors’ centre for activities, or schedule visits with friends and family.

Preparing your home for winter doesn’t need to feel overwhelming. A few proactive steps can help you stay safe, warm, and comfortable all season long. And if you find the list daunting, don’t hesitate to ask for support—family, neighbours, or local services are often glad to lend a hand.Winter can be beautiful, and with a well-prepared home, you’ll be ready to enjoy it with peace of mind. Looking for a trusted resource to help you? Ask HELM- we are happy to share our vetted resources with you.