Remove dust from shades and curtains with a brush or upholstery vacuum attachment, on a low-suction setting. If window treatments look dingy, take them down and either hand-wash or dry clean, depending on care instructions. Tablecloths should be rolled around cardboard tubes rather than folded, so the fabric will not weaken along the creases. Test smoke detectors, replacing any batteries older than six months. Check batteries in carbon-monoxide detectors and flashlights.
Inspect pressure gauges on fire extinguishers.
Remove fallen branches, stones and other debris from the yard. Tree limbs that overhang buildings should be trimmed, cut down or secured by cables. Remove mulch from beds planted with bulbs. Check fences, steps and pathways for disrepair. Chimneys should be professionally inspected once a year and cleaned after two cords of wood have been burned.