Staying safe and well at winter

Is your home ready for winter?

Here are a few simple steps you can take to help prevent problems later:

• check that pipes are adequately lagged
• check that you have ordered your winter heating fuel
• get your chimney or flue swept
• get a supply of grit to use on paths and steps around your property
• stock up on tinned food and supplies for your freezer
• check that you know where your stop tap is located - in case a pipe bursts
• test your central heating - get your boiler serviced and make sure radiators are hot from top to bottom
• if you have a condensing boiler, check that the external pipe is insulated
• be especially aware of fire safety - particularly if you are planning to use portable heaters, open fires or stoves - install a battery-operated carbon monoxide detector and smoke alarms and test them every week

If you're looking for a for a local trader to help prepare your home for winter, or make repairs, you can find reputable businesses on our Trusted Trader list or through Call Derbyshire tel: 01629 533190.