1. Flashlights and Extra Batteries

Flashlights are essential in case of a power outage or for navigating dark areas of the home. Having extra batteries ensures that the light source is always available.

2. First Aid Kit

A first aid kit is a collection of supplies and equipment for medical treatment. It contains bandages, antiseptic wipes, adhesive tape, gauze, scissors, tweezers, and over-the-counter medications.

Having a first aid kit on hand can help quickly and effectively treat minor injuries and illnesses and provide peace of mind in an emergency.

3. Fire Extinguisher

A fire extinguisher is a device that is used to put out fires by spraying a special chemical or agent to extinguish the flames. It is important to always have at least one fire extinguisher in the home to be prepared in case of a fire.

Fire extinguishers should be checked regularly and maintained according to the manufacturer's instructions.

4. Plunger and Drain Cleaner

A plunger is a tool used to unclog drains and pipes blocked due to debris buildup. Drain cleaner is a chemical solution that breaks down and dissolves clogs in drains and pipes.

Having both of these items on hand as a homeowner is essential for addressing any clogs or blockages that may occur in the home's plumbing system.

5. Step Ladder

A step ladder is valuable for reaching high places, painting, and other home repair and maintenance tasks. It is also useful for getting items out of high cabinets or shelves and can even be used to clean hard-to-reach areas in your home.

6. Extension cords

Extension cords extend the reach of electrical outlets to power appliances, electronics, and other devices. They can also supply power to outdoor areas such as decks, patios, and gardens. Extension cords come in various lengths, gauges, and styles, so selecting the right cord for the job is important.

7. Basic Tools

Basic tools typically include a hammer, screwdrivers, wrenches, pliers, a utility knife, and a level. These tools can save time and money when tackling minor home repairs.

 

What Homeowners Need to Think About When They Move Into a Home

Schedule A Deep Clean

A deep clean is an in-depth cleaning process that removes filth, dust, and allergens from every inch of a home, including its surfaces, appliances, furniture, and carpets. The deep clean should include a complete vacuuming and shampooing of carpets and a thorough cleaning and purging of all air ducts to remove dust and debris.

Changing House Lock

Changing the locks on your home is an important security measure to protect your family and belongings. Previous tenants, landlords, or even just casual visitors to your property may have made copies of the keys to your locks.

Get A Security System Installed

A security system lets you watch your house and receive instant notifications of suspicious activity. You can install surveillance cameras, motion detectors, and other monitoring equipment.

Update Your Address

To ensure that your mail, bills, and other messages reach you promptly, you must change your address. Notifying the post office, driver's license bureau, insurance providers, and other financial organizations of your new location are vital.

Transfer Utilities

It is important to transfer the utilities, such as electricity, gas, water, and sewage, to ensure all services run smoothly. To transfer the utilities, the homeowner must contact the appropriate utility company and provide the necessary information, such as the new home's address and the previous owner's account number.

 

Safety Precautions to Take as a Homeowner

Some of the most important safety precautions to take include:

• Ensuring your smoke alarms and carbon monoxide detectors are working

• Inspecting your home for any potential fire hazards

• Installing safety features such as deadbolts on all entry doors

• Installing security cameras and motion-sensing lights around the exterior of your home and ensuring your home is equipped with a working fire extinguisher

• Keep fire extinguishers in accessible locations throughout your home and make sure everyone knows how to use them

• Ensure that your windows and doors are secure and that they are not potential entry points

• Schedule regular inspections of your home's plumbing, electrical, and HVAC systems

It is important to regularly inspect your home's wiring and electrical outlets to ensure they are not in danger of being overloaded.

If you have a pool, it is important always to keep the area around the pool secure and ensure that children are supervised at all times. These safety precautions can help ensure your home and family are safe and secure.

 

Dangerous Things You Should Not Have In Your Home

Having dangerous items in your home can be a major safety hazard and should be avoided at all costs. Some of the items you should never have in your home include:

• Flammable liquids and gasses

• Fireworks, firearms

• Sharp objects

• Poisonous chemicals, and any medical waste

Flammable liquids and gases, such as gasoline, lighter fluid, and propane, are highly combustible and can easily cause an explosion or fire if mishandled.

Fireworks should never be kept in the home and should only be used in a safe and controlled environment.

Firearms can be extremely dangerous if not handled properly, and storing them safely and away from children is important. Knives and other sharp objects should also be kept away from children and kept in a secure location when not in use.

Medical waste should be disposed of properly, as it can contain bacteria, viruses, and other pathogens that can be hazardous to your health.

Pesticides can be dangerous if swallowed, breathed, or in touch with the skin. Always pay close attention to the labels and use them as directed.

 

Written by Taylor McKnight, Author for Strobels Supply