Squirrels do it, birds do it—and you should do it too: make your nest warm, safe, and snug before the chills of winter set in.

OUTSIDE THE HOUSE

1. Prune tree branches that touch the house.

2. Clean rain gutters and install wire strainers (to save yourself the trouble next year).

3. Clean and store outdoor furniture.

4. Remove window screens.

5. Put up storm windows.

6. Check windows for needed putty, weather stripping, or caulking.

7. Inspect roof for loose or missing shingles.

8. Check chimney for cracks, damaged bricks, loose flashing.

9. Drain outside faucets and hoses, put away hoses, and turn off faucets.

10. Double-check drainage (during rainstorm) to ensure water flows away from house.

To check for drafts, try the “hair dryer and candle test.” One person blows a hair dryer at door and window crevices while a second watches the flame of a burning candle on the other side. You’ll need to install weather stripping or caulk the edges of doors and windows where the flame flickered (or blew out!).

INSIDE THE HOUSE

1. Fill and clean humidifier, test, and start.

2. Have heating system checked by serviceperson.

3. Check area around furnace and sweep away dust and flammable debris.

4. Install clean air filter and purchase several ahead of time, if you have the disposable type.

5. Check chimney for bird nests; hire chimney sweep if needed.

6. Test fireplace damper. It should open and close smoothly.

AND DON’T FORGET . . .

Beat the crowds by stocking up on these items before the first big storm is predicted.

• Snow shovel

• Salt or chemical ice melting crystals

• Firewood

• Interior and exterior doormats that can handle mud and slush

• And . . . just to be safe, double-check the family cars for winter supplies.