Home Safe Home: Tips for Keeping Your House Safe this Winter

The leaves have fallen, and winter is here.  It’s time to ensure that your home will keep everyone safe and warm all winter long.  Even if your furnace is in fine working order, it should be serviced annually. Without this yearly cleaning and inspection, the system can wear out quickly, pump deadly carbon monoxide into your home, or simply stop working.  In fact, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency recommends an annual maintenance service to prevent potentially deadly buildup of carbon monoxide (CO).

As with smoke alarms, make sure you have a carbon monoxide alarm on every level of your home, especially near sleeping areas, and keep them at least 15 feet away from fuel-burning appliances.

Portable generators should never be used inside homes or garages, even if doors and windows are open. Use generators outside only, far away from the home.

And if you haven't had your furnace inspected this year, set up an appointment for a cleaning and tune-up. Although you may be able to take care of some maintenance items yourself, such as cleaning and replacing filters, it’s best to hire a qualified technician to do a thorough inspection to check the safety and efficiency of the unit and make any necessary adjustments or repairs. 

You may also want to consider purchasing a Home Warranty Plan.  Home warranties provide repair and replacement coverage for the home’s most important systems and appliances.  When breakdowns occur, avoid the hassle of searching the internet for a reliable service contractor, and rely on your Home Warranty plan's network of pre-screened service providers you can trust.  The plan provides homeowners with savings, convenience and peace of mind. Contact your Prudential Preferred Agent for more details.

Brought to you by our preferred Partner, HMS Home Warranty.  HMS is an industry leader with over 30 years of creating success for clients and providing peace of mind for customers.  To learn more click http://www.hmsnational.com.