If you have a freestanding mailbox that anyone can get into, protect your families identities and consider installing a lock or using the post office for all your mail.

Have carbon monoxide detectors?

Ever think to put your landline phone’s ringer on mute so that prowlers don’t hear an unanswered ring while you’re gone? And if you use an answering machine (yes, some people still do), set the volume to very low.

Before bringing an extension cord outside for use, make sure it says it’s suitable for outdoor appliances.

Don’t leave notes on your door saying “back in a minute” or anything like that, no matter whom you’re expecting.

Do you have a smoke detector on every floor? Did you know that dirt buildup can interfere with their sensors?

Upgrade your smoke alarms to be interlinked, so that if the one in the basement goes off, the one on the third floor will too.

Thinking of recharging a non-rechargeable battery? Just buy new batteries. Otherwise it might explode.

Discard oily rags by hanging them outdoors for drying, then toss inside a metal can with a cover. An oily rag near a non-flaming heat source can still combust.

Don’t panic about perishable food if there’s a power outage; a freezer will preserve food for two whole days.