Let’s be honest, it’s July and summer is now in full swing. Since most of us like to take full advantage of this wonderful weather, we don’t want a long list of home tasks to tackle.  But, here are some practical tips to keep in mind this month:

1. Conserve water – keep your plants hydrated but consider letting the grass go brown for the rest of the season. Refill your water containers if you’ve used them for camping trips. Utilize your water company’s tools to determine how your water usage is going this year compared to last and ask any associated questions.
2. Prep for summer guests – August is the prime vacation month and the Seattle area is an ideal get away location. Queue hearing from friends and family members near and far. Give your guest room a quick once over, refresh bedding, make sure your stock of soaps and other toiletries are good, and source some yummy treats for a nice presentation upon their arrival.
3. Throw some shade – July is normally our hottest month, and this one isn’t any exception. Put up some patio umbrellas, grab a shade tent and make the most of our outdoor weather!
4. Summer Safety – crooks don’t take a summer vacation even if you do. Double-check your doors and windows are locked before heading out of town and let your neighbors know to keep an eye on things. Ensure you have copies of your important paperwork on hand in an easy-to-grab form in case of fire or other emergencies. Run through any emergency plans with children (don’t forget about pets!). Double check that your fire and carbon dioxide monitors are operating properly and be sure your fire extinguisher is operable.
5. Plant fall veggies – grocery prices are high, so take advantage of our temperate climate and begin starts for fall vegetables like cauliflower, broccoli, kale and more, for a garden that continues to grow.