Simple home safety checks to do once a year

Make an annual safety check part of your routine

A home safety check doesn’t have to mean doing everything in one afternoon. Pick a date you’ll remember, make a list and work through it a little at a time. Ask another household member to help, and note anything that needs a repair or a professional visit. An annual review also gives you a chance to update your emergency plan. Some equipment needs attention more often, so follow its instructions throughout the year.

Test smoke and carbon monoxide alarms

Start by finding every smoke and carbon monoxide (CO) alarm in your home. Press the test button on each unit, following the manufacturer’s instructions. If an alarm doesn’t respond as the instructions say it should, address the problem rather than leaving it for next year’s check. Ask someone for help if an alarm is difficult to reach.

Review where alarms are located, too. The research recommends alarms on each level and outside sleeping areas, with CO alarms near combustion sources or garages. Check the manufacturer’s placement instructions for your units. Replace batteries annually or as directed; some alarms have sealed batteries instead.

Look for the date and replacement instructions on each alarm. The research recommends replacing smoke alarms every 10 years and CO alarms every five to seven years. Follow the instructions for your particular model, and write replacement dates on your household checklist so you don’t have to rely on memory.

Inspect fire extinguishers

Locate your fire extinguishers and make sure you can get to them easily. The research suggests keeping one in the kitchen, garage and on each level. Check that the pin is intact and, if the extinguisher has a pressure gauge, that it reads in the green zone. Look for damage and check the date or service instructions on the label. Arrange for replacement if an extinguisher is damaged or expired.

Take a moment to read the operating instructions with other household members. Keep the area around each extinguisher clear so it is easy to find.

Test GFCI outlets and check electrical cords

Ground-fault circuit interrupter (GFCI) outlets often have test and reset buttons. Check the outlets in your kitchen, bathrooms, garage and outdoor areas, and test the GFCI outlets you find according to their instructions. If an outlet doesn’t respond as expected, arrange for a qualified electrician to inspect it.

As you move through each room, look at the cords you use for lamps, appliances and other equipment. Note any fraying or other visible damage. Also look for overloaded outlets and places where extension cords are being overused. Make a list of anything that needs attention rather than trying to remember it later.

Warm or sparking outlets are reasons to seek a professional inspection. Leave electrical repairs to a qualified electrician rather than opening an outlet or attempting a repair yourself.

Check heating, cooling and dryer vents

Put heating and cooling maintenance on your calendar. The research recommends an annual inspection of the furnace, air conditioner and related systems by a certified technician, along with regular filter cleaning or replacement. Check the instructions for your equipment and note when its filters need attention.

Include the dryer in your review. The research recommends cleaning dryer vents and lint buildup as a fire-prevention measure. Follow the dryer’s instructions and arrange help if the vent is difficult to reach or clean. Add the task to your ongoing household maintenance list rather than assuming the annual review is the only time to look at it.

Keep a note of completed service and any follow-up work. That way, you can see what has been handled and what still needs an appointment.

Look over gutters and the exterior from the ground

Walk around the outside of your home and look at the gutters and downspouts from ground level. Note visible clogs or damage, then arrange help if cleaning or repair is needed. You don’t need to climb a ladder to make the initial check.

While you’re outside, look for vegetation touching the house and any changes around the foundation that you want inspected. Write down what you see and where you saw it. If a concern is beyond what you can assess from the ground, contact an appropriate professional.

Review escape routes and practice your emergency plan

Walk through your home with everyone who lives there and review how to get out of each room. The research recommends identifying two exits per room where possible, keeping exits clear and choosing a meeting spot outside. Agree on a place everyone can remember, then practice a drill together.

Talk through what each person would do and whether anyone would need assistance. Check that the routes you’ve chosen still work for your household, especially if a room’s use or someone’s needs have changed. For upper floors, the research suggests considering a fire escape ladder; review its instructions before including one in your plan.

Finish by reviewing your notes from the rest of the checklist. Set dates for repairs, replacements and appointments, and share the list with anyone helping. Next year, use it as a starting point—but attend to concerns as they arise.