Although each home has different needs, consider the following when leaving your home for an extended period of time.

* Turn off water competely. Open drain valves.

* Turn off water heater and drain it.

* Add anti-freeze (RV type) to toilets, basins and sinks

* Flush toilets completely and plunge out remaining water

* Open all faucets

* Drain irrigation and sprinkler systems

* Make sure all pipes underneath house are insulated

* Leave the heat on a temperature of 50 degrees F or more

* Caulk windows, especially if you notice water stains

* Consider sealing decks or staining wood houses

* Board up windows or sliding glass doors where snow load could lead to damage

* Consider having your property checked regularlyfor snow load on your decks or roof

* Contract for snow removal

* Put up snow poles and remove any planters that would be damaged by snow removal equipment

* Have your chimney cleaned

*Stock your wood supply and cover it properly

* Make sure you have a protective cover over your propane regulator. Area around propane tank needs to be shoveled out.

* Fill your propane tank

* Check the batteries in smoke and carbon monoxide detectors and alarms, plus have back up batteries available

* Repair or reseal your driveway

 THIS IS NOT A COMPREHENSIVE LIST. PLEASE CONTACT YOUR REAL ESTATE AGENT FOR FURTHER CONTACT NAMES AND INFORMATION.