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It’s officially spring, and all across the country people are undertaking the yearly activities of this time of year. A season of rebirth and reinvention, we tend to choose these months for productivity and transition. At home, you may be tackling that organizational project that’s been weighing on your mind throughout the winter, or preparing your garden for new growth. At work, you may recommit to a more positive attitude, or ways in which to take your success to the next level. And in your personal life, you may be refocusing on eating better and working out more consistently, or looking at ways to improve your relationships.
Whatever your unique springtime routines entail, there’s a part of your life as equally important as home, work, relationships, fitness, and wellness that we often neglect due to busy schedules or lack of knowledge. Sometimes, we simply dismiss these things because we’re in denial about the importance of them. That part is our personal safety and the safety of our family. Here are some home and personal spring cleaning tips that will change improve your life.
Home Safety
1. Reset automatic interior light timers. Burglars often look for distinct signs that your house is empty and ready for targeting. If you’ve taking the important safety precaution to have lights on timers during the winter, make sure you take the time to reset the light timers so that interior lights don’t come on too early when it’s still light out.
2. Trim shrubbery around entrances. Plants grow like crazy this time of year, so make sure that you don’t let trees and shrubs near entrances get out of control. Limit hiding places near front and back doors by keeping greenery in check.
3. Check smoke and carbon monoxide detectors. We all know we should be on top of this task, but how many of us actually remember to consistently check the batteries and functionality of our detectors? Take this time of year to run tests on all smoke and carbon monoxide alarms in your house.
4. Outside flood lights. It’s easy to let a burned out bulb slip through the cracks, but will all of this spring cleaning taking place, make sure you change any external light bulbs that may have burned out over the winter. It’s extremely important to keep a well-lit exterior.
Personal Safety
1. Exercise outside safely. Now that we have nicer weather and longer daylight hours, people tend to begin to exercise outside more frequently. Remember to stay in well-lit, well-populated areas. Wear tighter fitting clothing, and avoid hooded sweatshirts and jackets, which are easier to grab and pull. Never wear both earbuds if you listen to music, and keep the volume down. Always tell a trusted friend where you’re going, when you’re starting, and when they can expect a return text or phone call from you.