The fall season is in full swing now that it is October. The fall season marks the beginning of the holiday season for many, with Halloween and Thanksgiving being two of the major holidays that many look forward to. Before beginning to prepare for these holidays, check out the following October checklist first:

• Fire safety – October marks the first real change in the weather. The temperatures are beginning to get colder, which means that people are going to begin cranking up the heat as well as making use of their fireplaces. It’s important that fire safety becomes a priority through both the fall season and the following winter season. Everyone should make sure that they have smoke alarms installed on every level of their home. Replace the batteries and test every smoke alarm in the house to make sure it’s working properly.
• Record fall memories – Fall is easily one of the most beautiful times of the year. Begin photographing the trees as the colors begin changing color and dropping off. The addition of more foggy and misty days adds can add mystery and atmosphere to these photographs. Amateur and professional photographers alike should keep an eye out for reflections of these beautiful scenes in water, such as small ponds or lakes, in order to capture particularly striking images.
• Begin planting for next year – For anyone that wants a bit more color on their property, plan ahead for next October by planting trees and shrubs known for their colorful aesthetic now, such as Japanese maples, sassafras, baldcypress, euonymous bushes and more.
• Eat healthy to fight seasonal depression – The days are beginning to grow shorter and the weather does take a turn for the gloomy – especially when compared to the preceding summer season. Everyone should make sure that they eat foods that are rich in omega-3s, such as salmon and walnuts. Foods rich in tryptophan, such as spinach and turkey, can help people avoid the seasonal depression as well.

Keep this October checklist in mind this month and be sure to contact us at The Benefits Store for health insurance advice.