Think about your local weather patterns, and plan accordingly. If your area is usually hit with high winds at this time of year, it's a good idea to check around your yard for things that could blow away and be a potential safety hazard. If you don't have enough room in your house or garage to store these items, tie them down outside. You don't want your lawn chairs to be get taken away by a strong gale and smash into a window.

Make sure as well that anything you do leave outside will be able to stand up to the elements. They will get covered in rain, ice, and snow, so only leave things out that won't collapse or deteriorate under the pressure.

Removing debris that can be taken up by the wind will not only improve safety for your home, family, and neighbors, but it will also improve the aesthetics of your home. We've all seen homes in the wintertime that have tools, toys, and furniture strewn throughout the yard, looking depressed. Tidy yards are much more attractive in the winter months because the weather itself is so glum. You want to give your home good curb appeal, so start with cleaning up the yard.

While you're busy outside, be sure to clean out your gutters. Neglecting to do this can lead to a flood during heavy rain and snowfall.

Check the trees on your property. Watch out for branches that may buckle under the weight of a lot of snow, and fall on your house. If there are any dead trees nearby, it's best to get them taken care before the bad weather starts. If you don't, heavy winds could topple the tree right over.

Before the snow hits, make sure that you stock up on deicing material for your driveway and steps. Sand and kitty litter are both inexpensive options, and are more environmentally friendly than rock salt. They are also less likely to damage your cement than traditional deicers.

Something else that will come in very handy this season is caulking material. Use it to seal in any cracks or gaps on the exterior of your home. Cracks allow cold air and water to get into your home. Particularly vulnerable areas are around door and window frames, the gutter, and openings for phone and television cables.

Remember, once the flakes start to fall, everyone will be heading to hardware stores to stock up on rock salt, snow shovels, and heaters. Plan now so you don't get left out in the cold.