Category: Blogs

Tidy up and clear debris
Winter can leave your garden looking a little worse for wear, with fallen leaves, broken branches, and other debris scattered across your lawn and flowerbeds. Start by raking leaves, removing dead plants, and clearing any clutter to give your outdoor space a fresh start. This also helps prevent pests and diseases from taking hold.

Lawn care: a fresh start
Your lawn may look a little tired after the colder months, but a few simple steps can bring it back to life. Begin by raking away any dead grass and moss, then aerate the soil to improve drainage and encourage healthy root growth. If your lawn has bare patches, now is a great time to reseed. A light feed with a suitable lawn fertiliser will also help encourage strong, green growth.

Prune and trim
Pruning is essential to keep shrubs and trees healthy and looking their best. Cut back any dead or damaged branches and shape hedges for a tidy appearance. Early spring is also the right time to prune roses and certain perennials, encouraging new growth and better flowering in the months ahead.

Refresh your flowerbeds
If you have flowerbeds or pots, give them a little boost by turning over the soil and adding compost or fertiliser. This replenishes nutrients and improves soil structure, helping plants to thrive. Spring is a great time to plant hardy perennials, herbs, and early flowering bulbs like daffodils and tulips if you didn’t plant them in autumn.

Plan for colour and interest
Consider adding some spring-flowering plants to brighten up your garden. Primroses, pansies, and crocuses bring an instant pop of colour, while evergreen shrubs provide year-round interest. If space is limited, hanging baskets and window boxes can be a great way to add greenery.

Think about wildlife
Encouraging birds and bees into your garden not only helps the environment but can also make your outdoor space more enjoyable. Bird feeders, bee-friendly plants, and a small water source like a shallow dish can attract beneficial wildlife.

By taking a little time now to prepare your garden, you can enjoy a beautiful and welcoming outdoor space throughout the warmer months. Whether you have a large garden or just a small patch of green, these simple steps will help make the most of your home’s outdoor space this spring.

Christmas trees

Whether you choose a real or artificial tree, safety starts with proper placement and care. Real trees should be fresh and watered regularly to prevent them from drying out, as dry trees can be highly flammable. Check that the needles are green and firmly attached to the branches. Artificial trees are a great option if they’re labelled as fire-resistant. Wherever your tree stands, ensure it’s positioned away from heat sources like radiators or fireplaces and isn’t blocking any exits. When decorating, avoid overloading branches to keep the tree stable and secure.

Electrical decorations

Festive lights can bring warmth and cheer but handling them responsibly is essential. Before setting up your lights, inspect them for any signs of wear, such as frayed wires or broken bulbs, and replace anything that’s damaged. It’s also essential to avoid overloading electrical sockets; only use one extension lead per outlet to reduce the risk of overheating. Always turn off your lights when you leave the house or go to bed. Using a timer can make this easier. LED lights are an excellent choice as they consume less energy, produce less heat, and are generally safer.

Candle caution

Candles can create a cosy, festive atmosphere but require careful attention. Always place candles on stable surfaces, away from anything flammable, such as curtains or decorations. Never leave a lit candle unattended, especially when leaving the room or heading to bed. If you’re concerned about safety, consider using battery-operated LED candles. These alternatives provide a warm glow without the risks associated with open flames.

Decorating safely

When decorating your home, think about safety as well as style. Avoid placing too many decorations in one area, as this can create potential fire hazards or make pathways difficult to navigate. Use proper hooks or clips to hang items, rather than nails or staples, which could damage electrical wires. If you have children or pets, keep fragile or small decorations out of their reach to prevent accidents.

Heater and fireplace precautions

Fireplaces and heaters can be key to staying cosy during the festive season, but they also require caution. Ensure decorations or stockings are placed at a safe distance from heat sources to avoid accidental fires. If you plan to use a fireplace, make sure it’s clean and in good working condition before lighting it.

Smoke alarms and emergency preparedness

Your smoke alarms are essential to keeping your home safe during the holidays. Take a moment to test them before the season gets into full swing. If you find any issues, don’t hesitate to contact HHA for assistance. Having emergency contacts readily available, including the local fire service and HHA support numbers, is also a good idea. As a reminder, our emergency out-of-hours numbers are 01463 251132 or 01463 251131.

Staying safe doesn’t mean compromising on festive cheer. You can enjoy a magical Christmas with peace of mind by taking a few simple precautions. Everyone at HHA wishes you and your loved ones a joyful, safe and merry Christmas!

Protect Your Pipes

One of the most common issues during winter is frozen or burst pipes. Letting your taps drip slightly during freezing conditions can prevent water from stagnating and freezing in the pipes. It’s also important to familiarise yourself with the location of your stopcock so you can quickly turn off the water supply in case of an emergency.

Ensure Proper Ventilation

Proper ventilation is equally important during the winter. While it’s tempting to seal your home entirely to keep the warmth in, good airflow helps to prevent condensation and mould. Using extractor fans in the bathroom and kitchen when cooking or bathing can help control moisture levels. Opening your windows for short periods during the day allows fresh air to circulate, reducing dampness. If condensation appears on windows or surfaces, wipe it away promptly to prevent mould from forming.

Heat Your Home Efficiently

Heating your home efficiently can save money while keeping it warm. Setting your thermostat between 18°C and 21°C ensures a comfortable environment while also protecting your pipes from freezing. Using timers on your heating system allows you to control when your home is warm, such as before waking up and during the evening. Keeping curtains and blinds closed after sunset helps retain heat, and if your radiators are not heating evenly, bleeding them can release trapped air and improve their efficiency.

Inspect the Exterior of Your Home

It’s also important to check your home’s exterior for any vulnerabilities. Clearing gutters and drains of leaves and debris helps prevent water from backing up and freezing, which could lead to damage. Inspect your roof for loose tiles or damage that might let in water or cold air. Icy walkways can be hazardous, so salting or gritting pathways can reduce the risk of slips and falls.

Be Prepared for Winter Storms

Winter storms can disrupt power and water supplies, so it’s wise to prepare for such events. Stock up on essentials like torches, batteries, candles, and non-perishable food in case of outages. Staying informed about local weather alerts will also help you anticipate severe conditions and plan accordingly.

Report Issues and Check on Neighbours

If you notice an issue in your home, such as draughts, leaks, or heating problems, report it to HHA as soon as possible. Addressing problems early can prevent them from becoming more serious or costly to fix.

Lastly, don’t forget to check in on your neighbours, especially those who may be elderly or vulnerable. A quick visit or phone call can ensure they are safe, warm, and supported during the colder months.

By taking these proactive steps, you can keep your home secure, comfortable, and protected throughout winter. Remember, Highland Housing Alliance is here to assist you, so if you have any concerns or require support, don’t hesitate to get in touch. You can find our contact details, including out-of-hours or emergency numbers, here.

Stay safe and warm this winter!