Warmer weather means it’s time for backyard barbecues, patio parties and picnic playdates. Make sure to prep your yard carefully for summer fun!

Mowing your lawn

Each year, approximately 75,000 people are seriously injured by lawn mowers, according to the Insurance Information Institute.

• Know how to quickly shut off your mower in case of an emergency.
• Never leave a running lawn mower unattended.
• Make sure all lawn mower safety equipment is intact.
• Never remove safety features.
• Remove rocks, sticks and other debris from the yard before mowing.
• Keep young children away from the mower.
• Only add fuel to your mower when the engine is cool.

Trimming trees

• Prune tree limbs regularly to keep them from damaging your home, decks and outbuildings.

Cleaning roof gutters

• Remove leaves, sticks and other debris from roof gutters so water can flow freely when the rains return.

Removing yard waste

• Consider composting leaves, sticks, grass cuttings and other yard waste instead of burning them or putting them in landfill.

Keep your home protected. For information about home insurance, check out the AAA Home Insurance website, call your AAA Insurance Agent, or visit your local AAA South Jersey branch.