Replace batteries in smoke detectors, alarm keypads and thermostats!

Set thermostats to 55 degrees – If your home is not drained and completely winterized, keep the temperature set to a minimum of 50 degrees, preferably 55 or higher.

Turn water off when you are away – if you will be gone for an extended time, leave your water off.

Consider installing heat tape on your roof or gutters  - You may want to add heater tape to areas prone to ice dams.  There are products out now that automatically activate based on temperature and/or precipitation.

Clean and repair gutters - Check gutters and downspouts late in fall after pine needles and leaves have fallen. Remove all debris that is clogging the system, look for rust or corrosion, and be vigilant for low spots where water may be standing.

Check exterior, doors and windows – Check weather-stripping on exterior doors, seal any cracks or gaps around pipes coming into home, replaced cracked or broken windows, and make sure all doors and windows close and lock securely.

Woodburning fireplaces – Make sure your damper is in good working order by opening and shutting it prior to lighting the first fire of the season. If you didn't clean your chimney at the end of the heating season, do it now—especially if you burn soft woods, which release more creosote.

Shut down air conditioners and prepare heating systems – If you have air conditioners and use them seasonally, this is a good month to close them down. Switch off power, make sure the condensate drain is clear, and clean condenser coils and filters (a vacuum will do). Either remove window units or cover them, to protect your home from drafts and the units from inclement weather. Next, prepare your heating system by having it serviced and the filters replaced.

Cut brush back from the house – Before stowing all of your gardening equipment for the winter, walk around your house with a weed whacker and a pair of pruners and cut back any brush, weeds or branches that contact your house.

Store outdoor furniture – Scrub and store outdoor furniture; even furniture designed to stay out year-round will last longer if protected from extreme cold and wet. Store or cover your barbecue unless you cook with it all year. Empty and store large planters—clay or terra-cotta units will crack if left out to freeze and thaw. Clean and store your gardening tools, but don't put them completely out of reach—shovels are useful year-round.

Contract for snow removal services  - now is the time to contact local snow removal providers and get on their schedule.  Many handyman, painting and landscaping contractors provide this service.

Winterize external plumbing systems by mid-October - This is the most important job of fall if you live in an area that freezes in the winter.