October 25th, 2011 
Tushar Mathur Hockey season is about ready to start. The birds have begun their long migration south. That means its time for you to pack the car and head south too. Florida awaits you.
Before you leave, there are a few things that need looking after. Most concern preparing your home for the winter while you are gone. The list of 31 suggestions below covers most situations. You may want to add a few of your own.
1. Shut off your cold water supply valve and drain your faucets until no liquid comes out. You will be assured that your pipes will not freeze and burst inside the house.
2. Open all outside drains to eliminate any water that could d freeze and damage your outdoor pipes.
3. Un-plug all appliances, TVs, computers, refrigerators ranges and even small appliances like micro waves and toasters.
4. Leave refrigerator propped open with a box of baking soda inside to eliminate mold.build up..
5. Drain Toilets. If you use an anti freeze, use only non toxic eco friendly products.
6. Set furnace thermostat at 10 degrees C.
7. Leave a light on a timer in the main room for 4-5 hors every evening.
8. Have drives and walks shoveled while you are away.
9. Install motion sensor outdoor lighting.
10. Put metal or wood pieces in sliding patio door tracks to prevent access.
11. Shut drapes and put carpets along the bottom of doors to prevent cold air.
12. Give your house key to a friend or relative in case of emergency or for an occasional inspection.
13. Tell closest neighbors how to reach you in case of emergency.
14. Discontinue newspaper deliveries and cable TV
15. If you are leaving a second car home, carry only property loss insurance and save $$$$.
16. Send your houseplants off to family, or have someone come-by periodically to water them.
17. Shut off basement lights, and check all others.
18. Turn down water heater to vacation mode.
19. Shut off pilot light in the fireplace and gas range, and close the damper securely.
20. Put a new filter in the furnace.
21. Disconnect youranswering service, so people don’t expect a call back, unless you monitor calls from Florida.
22. Ask a neighbor to park a car in your drive, so your home looks occupied.
23. Take your phone and address book for reference.
24. Leave your phone and address for neighbors.
25. Pack a separate overnight bag for your motel stays along the way.
26. Don’t over pack.
27. Turn off water conditioners
28. Don’t forget the dog and his dog food, bed, and bowls.
29.
Posted in 
