If you're planning a visit to an older parent before winter, it's a good opportunity to check that their home is ready for colder weather. From checking heating systems to clearing walkways and organizing emergency supplies, there are several things you can take care of during one visit. Senior Helpers shares this winter safety checklist to help you focus on practical steps that can make a difference.

Preparing the Entryway for Winter Safety

Walk the path your parent uses from the driveway to the front door. Look for loose railings, cracked steps, uneven pavement, and areas where water collects and freezes. Make sure handrails are secure, and keep ice melt and a scoop near the entrance.

Check that the outdoor light works and provides enough visibility after dark. Replace burned-out bulbs so your parent can see the steps and walkway clearly.

Inside, keep floors clear and free of area rugs that could shift or bunch up. A sturdy bench and boot tray near the door give your parent a place to sit while changing shoes, keeping wet footwear off the floor.

A Room-by-Room Winter Preparation Checklist

Once the entryway is ready, work through the rest of the house. These checks can address common winter safety hazards and make everyday items easier to reach:

• Test smoke alarms and carbon monoxide alarms. Replace batteries when needed, following the manufacturer's instructions.
• Make sure each sleeping area has a working carbon monoxide alarm nearby, and talk with your parent about common sources of carbon monoxide and its warning signs.
• Keep space heaters at least three feet from curtains, bedding, furniture, and other combustible materials to ensure fire safety. Plug them directly into a wall outlet.
• Check the furnace filter and note when the system was last serviced.
• Put gloves, flashlights, blankets, and other frequently used items on shelves or drawers within easy reach. No step stool should be necessary.
• Place flashlights in convenient locations, such as the bedroom and kitchen.
• Stock several days of shelf-stable food, bottled water, and necessary medications.
• Put emergency contacts and important phone numbers somewhere easy to find.
• Agree on a comfortable thermostat setting and make sure your parent knows how to adjust it.

Making a Plan for Winter Power Outages

Talk with your parent about what they would do if the power went out overnight. Decide whom they should call, where to find emergency supplies, and who could check on them if the outage lasts. Keep a charged battery pack and flashlight near the bed. Review basic winter safety precautions and encourage them to pay attention to weather alerts so they have time to prepare for severe conditions. Include a plan for keeping the home warm if heating is interrupted.

Keeping Up with Home Safety Throughout Winter

Preparing the house in one visit is a good start. However, regular check-ins throughout the colder months can help maintain winter safety as weather conditions change and household needs arise. If you can't check in regularly, consider arranging additional support. Senior Helpers Greater Grand Rapids provides in-home care and can help older adults with everyday routines throughout the winter and beyond. Contact us to discuss your parent's needs and available in-home care options in Belding, Belmont, Byron Center, Cedar Springs, and Comstock Park.