While the bright skies and cool temperatures of fall make it prime time for weekend getaways, trips to the apple orchard, and hikes in the great outdoors, remember that this is also a critical time of year for home care. If you don’t want to spend too much of the season on house-related chores, focus on at least these five tasks. They’ll be easier and less costly to address now while the weather is still in your favor:

1. Inventory your emergency supplies and equipment. Are you prepared for the aftermath of harsh weather? If you have an emergency generator, make sure it’s serviced and ready to go. Have flashlights and batteries gathered in a convenient spot, along with an emergency water supply, candles and matches. Make sure old fuel has been drained from outdoor power equipment and have a fresh supply at the ready.
2. Button things up. Don’t wait for chillier temperatures to start checking for drafts. Investigate all windows and doors to see if air is escaping, and caulk and seal as necessary.
3. Have your chimney cleaned. Before peak fire season gets underway, have your chimney professionally cleaned and serviced to remove creosote build-up, get rid of any nests, and take care of any repairs.
4. Prep your lawn. You may think your grass duties ended with summer, but do two important things this fall: aerate and fertilize. Aerating opens your lawn up, allowing fertilizer to reach the roots that continue to grow throughout the winter. This process will set the stage for a healthy showing come spring.
5. Prune your trees. To avoid tree branches coming down during winter storms, trim them now in the fall. For any major jobs, be sure to hire a professional. 

Get out and enjoy all that autumn has to offer...but take care of things at home, too.