Prepare your home for winter now to ensure safety, efficiency and comfort. Here is a checklist you can use:

• Test your smoke and carbon monoxide detectors and replace batteries if needed.
• Ensure vents and radiators are unblocked for efficient heat distribution and to prevent a fire.
• Insulate exposed pipes to prevent freezing.
• Drain and shut off outdoor faucets and irrigation systems.
• Gather winter tools such as snow shovels and ice melts.
• If you are going to shovel snow, be sure and wait after eating and take it slow and stretch before shoveling.
• Prepare an emergency kit for winter driving and include blankets, gloves, flashlight with extra batteries, windshield scraper and water.
• If your power goes out, call Central at 405-372-2884.