When most of us think of spring cleaning we think of getting the dust bunnies behind the refrigerator or breaking out the toothbrush to do a deep clean. This year with extra time at home, let’s remove the cobwebs from those to-do lists we’ve been meaning to get. Completing these tasks will make your family safer, your finances gleam and keep you healthy.
Check the National Sex Offender Public Website – This website has a list of nationally registered sex offenders. You can search by address or by name. As a mom, I don’t think I need to stress to you the importance of knowing your surroundings.
Get your free credit report at Annualcreditreport.com – A few years ago I did this and my Experian report said I was deceased! They quickly took care of the issue, but you never know what you’ll find. Also, check your children’s report. One out of ten minors has had fraudulent credit activity due to criminals preying on folks who wouldn’t think about checking their kid’s report.
Check your tires – I admit, this is something I tend to leave to my husband but I really shouldn’t. We all know that once a tire gets worn out it ends up in a bad situation. With April showers, I certainly want to make sure I have the right amount of tread. Plus in April, tire prices tend to go down in case you need to get a new set or pair.
Schedule medical checkups – Parents, I know we probably are the first to get our kids in for their annual checkup and we might bug our spouse or significant others to get theirs, too. However, we tend to neglect ourselves. Now that I’m over the age of forty, mammograms are part of the routine. Talk to your doctor to make sure you get a 3D mammogram image as well.
Do a trial emergency escape rundown – Map out escape routes for your home and try to designate two exits in each room. Roleplay having your child dial 911. This will come in handy especially if your phone is set in the locked position. Lastly, if age-appropriate, have the kids memorize your address and phone number.
Check car seat recalls – At the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration you can plug in the brand name and it takes it from there. While you’re at it, check your tires and car for recalls.
Find money with the State Controller – I know what you’re thinking. Why would the state have any money that belongs to you? Think back, though…perhaps you moved and a utility company owes you a refund. There are a number of reasons why you might have missing money and the state has its pretty little hands on it. Go get it back. You can even search for money that belongs to a charity that is near and dear to your heart. In times like these where we are looking for ways to help, this is a great way to assist safely from home. I once found hundreds of dollars for a local nonprofit organization.
See now wasn’t that easy? Ok, maybe not that easy. So, then just put reminders on your calendar to spread these action items out throughout the year. You’ll feel one step closer to Super Boss for taking care of business.