Seasonal Home Safety Checklist

Every season creates new risks—fire hazards in summer, heating dangers in winter, storm issues in spring and fall. This checklist gives you a simple pass-through for each season so you don’t miss anything that could turn into a much bigger problem.

For deeper seasonal prep, pair this with the Winterizing Your Home Checklist and Summer Fire Risk Checklist.

SPRING

1. Exterior and Yard

• [ ] Inspect siding and roof for winter damage
• [ ] Clear gutters from accumulated debris
• [ ] Trim branches away from the house and power lines
• [ ] Check fences and gates for winter shifting or damage

2. Safety Systems

• [ ] Test smoke alarms and CO alarms
• [ ] Check fire extinguishers for correct pressure
• [ ] Inspect outdoor lighting after winter darkness

3. HVAC and Utilities

• [ ] Change HVAC filters
• [ ] Test the A/C before the first heat wave
• [ ] Flush sediment from the water heater if needed

SUMMER

1. Fire and Heat Risks

• [ ] Clear dry brush and vegetation away from the home
• [ ] Verify outdoor grills are clean and placed safely
• [ ] Check attic ventilation to prevent heat buildup
• [ ] Confirm fire extinguishers are accessible

2. Outdoor Areas

• [ ] Inspect decks and railings for rot or loose boards
• [ ] Check for wasp or bee nests forming around eaves
• [ ] Re-aim or clean cameras affected by sun glare

3. Security

• [ ] Confirm windows left open for ventilation still lock securely
• [ ] Add window stops for partial opening
• [ ] Verify backyard gates latch

FALL

1. Weather Prep

• [ ] Clean gutters before leaves accumulate
• [ ] Check downspouts for proper drainage
• [ ] Inspect the roof before winter storms arrive
• [ ] Test sump pump if you have one

2. Heating Safety

• [ ] Service furnace or heating system
• [ ] Inspect chimney and fireplace for creosote buildup
• [ ] Replace HVAC filters again

3. Security and Lighting

• [ ] Replace bulbs along walkways ahead of early sunsets
• [ ] Test motion lights
• [ ] Check camera nighttime visibility

WINTER

1. Heating and Electrical Safety

• [ ] Keep space heaters 3 feet from anything flammable
• [ ] Inspect extension cords for holiday lighting
• [ ] Confirm CO detectors are working
• [ ] Check for drafts around windows and doors

2. Exterior and Ice Risks

• [ ] Remove snow and ice from walkways promptly
• [ ] Inspect roof edges for ice dams
• [ ] Ensure gutters aren’t clogged before freezing
• [ ] Protect outdoor faucets

3. Emergency Readiness

• [ ] Top off emergency water and non-perishables
• [ ] Check backup lighting and battery stock
• [ ] Verify blankets and cold-weather supplies are accessible

Seasonal walkthroughs keep small issues from turning into big, expensive problems. Handle each season once and enjoy a safer, lower-stress home all year.