It's that time of year when the weather keeps changing. There are lots of cold, dreary days, and snowfalls that don't stay for too long.

That also means it's the time of year to make sure our homes are ready for the real winter weather that's yet to come.

Here are 4 things you can do to prepare yourself and your home for winter:

1. Prevent pipes from freezing

Frozen pipes are a common household hazard in Eastern Ontario. Extended periods of below-freezing temperatures can cause pipes to burst if they are not properly protected and cared for.

Be sure to check that all of your pipes are properly insulated, particularly those near windows and doors, or in unheated areas of the home (such as the garage).

Disconnect any exterior hoses, empty them, and put them away. It is also a good idea to shut off water to the hose hookups.

Here’s a tip: keep the temperature of your house above 55 degrees Fahrenheit to prevent your pipes from freezing.

2. Test the sump pump

Your sump pump will keep your basement dry during wet weather. You can expect snow to build up around your home over the winter, which will melt into the ground on warmer days and could cause potential flooding or damage to your house.

Test that your sump pump works by pouring a few gallons of water down and checking that the pump turns on.

Note that the average lifespan of a sump pump is about 10 years, so you will have to replace it once in a while to make sure that it is ready for any wet weather.

3. Prepare for storms

Winter storms are often inconvenient. Snow and ice build-ups can leave you trapped in your house, but they can also knock out power lines.

Make sure that you have shovels and salt for clearing a path out of your house, but know that this may not always be possible.

In the case of a power outage or a storm that traps you inside, you will want to have a survival kit ready to hold you over. Include necessities such as bottled water and non-perishable foods, as well as flashlights, first aid supplies, batteries, and pre-charged power banks.

We also recommend having some puzzles or games on hand for entertainment. Although these are not necessary for survival, they will keep you from getting antsy and irritated with one another.

4. Have winter-ready entranceways

One of the downsides to winter is all of the snow and mud that inconveniently ends up all over your front hall and mud room.

Before the real snow falls start, make sure you put down mats and trays to catch all of the melting muck on everyone’s winter boots. This will also help prevent any damage caused by salt ending up on your pristine floors.

Make sure you have a setup for drying wet clothes, coats, and mitts as well.

That’s it; now you’re set for winter. But let’s hope that it holds off a while longer.