The Winter Home Safety Checklist: Electrical Edition

1. Test All Smoke Alarms

• Replace batteries if it's been six months
• Press the test button to confirm the alarm sounds
• Replace alarms older than ten years

2. Check Your CO (Carbon Monoxide) Detectors

CO is odorless and deadly. Make sure detectors are properly maintained:

• Installed inside and outside sleeping areas
• Replace if older than five to seven years
• Test them monthly

3. Confirm Generator Readiness

Power outages are common this time of year. Make sure you're prepared:

• Check that your generator starts properly
• Ensure extension cords are rated for outdoor/heavy use
• Verify your generator inlet or transfer switch is up to code and safe

4. Schedule an Electrical Panel Inspection

Your panel works harder in winter. A quick inspection helps catch:

• Loose breakers
• Corrosion
• Overloaded circuits
• Outdated panels that can't keep up with demand

A 20-minute check can prevent an entire-home outage.

5. Inspect Outdoor Outlets & Holiday Light Circuits

Moisture, cold temperatures, and overloaded decorations can trip GFCIs. Make sure to:

• Ensure outdoor outlets have bubble covers
• Use only outdoor-rated cords
• Keep connections off the ground and away from snow
• Do not plug space heaters or large appliances into extension cords

6. Check for Overloaded Circuits Indoors

Winter means space heaters, air fryers, Christmas lights, heated blankets, and more. If you're constantly resetting breakers, that's a sign the circuit needs upgrading—not a normal part of winter.