Kelly & Carl Robinson - Home Sweet Home

973-500-3253 info@carellyrealty.com www.carellyrealty.com

courtesy of: Kelly & Carl Robinson

Dear Homeowners, November brings shorter days, cooler nights, and the first hints of the holiday season—a time to make our homes warm, welcoming, and ready for gatherings. In this issue, you’ll find fresh inspiration to embrace the season with style and comfort. We look at practical steps to prepare for the months ahead, with easy tips to winterize your home and keep it safe, efficient, and cozy. You’ll also find simple yet impactful ways to bring autumn’s warmth into the kitchen, adding texture and personality that make the heart of your home even more inviting. If you’re tackling leaf piles in your yard this season, we share guidance to keep disposal practices safe, compliant, and neighbor-friendly.

And for your holiday table, our Maple Pecan Brie Pull-Apart Wreath is a showstopping recipe that’s simple, festive, and sure to delight every guest.

It’s the perfect time to reflect on your home goals. If questions about buying, selling, or even planning your next move are on your mind, we are more than happy to help!

Kelly & Carl Robinson

973-500-3253 info@CarellyRealty.com carellyrealty.com/digital _ magazine www.CarellyRealty.com

Table of Contents

Checklist to Winterize Your Home HOW TO PREPARE NOW FOR A SAFE AND COZY WINTER

A Tasty Thanksgiving Centerpiece RECIPE: MAPLE PECAN BRIE PULL- APART WREATH

Boost comfort, protect against cold- weather damage, and keep energy costs in check. From draft-proofing windows to safeguarding plumbing and preparing outdoor spaces, these tips will help your home stay safe, efficient, and cozy all winter long.

Leaf and Yard Debris Guide 18

BURN RULES AND SAFER ALTERNATIVES FOR FALL YARD CLEANUP

Autumn Kitchen Tile Trends BRING WARMTH, TEXTURE, AND STYLE INTO YOUR SPACE

This guide helps you navigate local burn rules, practice safe fire habits, and explore safer alternatives for fall yard cleanup. From understanding when and where burning is allowed to choosing options like mulching, composting, or professional leaf removal, these tips will help protect your home, neighborhood, and the environment.

This season’s kitchen trends are all about comfort and character, with rich autumn-inspired hues, organic shapes, and nature’s textures taking center stage. Discover how tile is being used in unexpected ways—from tabletops to accent walls—to bring warmth and individuality into the heart of the home.

November 2025

As the days grow shorter and temperatures begin to dip, it's time to prepare homes for the colder months ahead. Winterizing your home isn’t just about staying warm; it’s about protecting your investment, improving energy efficiency, and avoiding costly repairs when the chill sets in. From sealing drafts to safeguarding your plumbing, taking a few proactive steps now can ensure your home weathers the season comfortably and safely. Checklist to Winterize Your Home

DOORS

Install door insulation to keep air from seeping through small gaps around the door frame. You’ll find door insulation in different thicknesses and styles to meet every need. Although inexpensive and easy to install, it can significantly impact comfort and lead to cost savings throughout the season. For smaller gaps, use a thread of caulking instead. Also, use door sweeps on all exterior doors for added draft protection. Similarly, use draft stoppers on all interior or exterior doors. Draft stoppers are made from a variety of materials, and they work by simply blocking cold air from moving in beneath the door. If you’re the crafty type, you can make your own. You don’t even need a designated sweep since a rolled-up towel will do the job.

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WINDOWS

FURNACE

Windows are a significant source of heat loss and cold-air entry. If your windows are older or inefficient, you can apply window film to make the space less drafty and reduce the need for additional heating. Window film kits are available online and at home improvement stores. The plastic film sticks to the window frame, and some styles rely on heat from a hair dryer to shrink it for a tight fit. At the end of the season, it’s easy to remove. Additionally, you can cover those drafty windows with curtains for efficient protection from cold drafts. Look for options with thick fabric or thermal construction. In conjunction with window film, you could benefit from substantial cold-weather savings and improved temperature moderation.

Be sure to replace your furnace filter at least every three months and as often as once a month when it runs frequently or you burn wood in a fireplace or woodstove. Maintain your furnace with an HVAC service provider twice a year to enhance reliability and efficiency. Lisa Purvins, CFO and Vice President at Pro- Tech Heating & Cooling, says, “When it comes to your HVAC system, now is the time to have your furnace professionally inspected and tuned. We see too many people skip this step and end up calling us during a blizzard because their furnace gave out. A fall tune-up ensures the system is running safely and efficiently, and that things like heat exchangers, burners, and blower motors are clean and functioning correctly.” In addition to regular furnace maintenance, upgrading to a smart thermostat can greatly improve your home’s energy efficiency. These devices can be programmed to automatically lower the temperature at night or while you’re away, reducing unnecessary heating costs. Many models also offer smartphone apps, allowing you to adjust your home’s temperature remotely with just a few taps—perfect for unexpected schedule changes or when you forget to turn down the heat before leaving.

CEILING FANS

If your ceiling fans have a switch that changes the direction of the blades, use the setting to reverse them into winter mode. This helps push warm air from the ceiling, where it gathers back down into the room.

OUTLETS

Even the smallest air gaps can cause the furnace to work harder to warm the home. For a few dollars, you can purchase a package of insulation pieces sized to fit your outlets. These install in minutes and act as a barrier from outdoor drafts, especially on exterior walls.

5 November 2025

WATER HEATER

PIPES

Water heaters have to work harder during cold weather to keep hot water at the ready. Make your water heater’s job easier with a water heater blanket, which will help insulate the water heater and improve efficiency.

If you have exposed plumbing pipes, wrap them with pipe insulation tubes or tape. Pipe insulation keeps the pipes from freezing, which is not only inconvenient but can cause very extensive and expensive damage. Purvins adds, “Plumbing protection is another area that’s often overlooked. In extreme cold, exposed pipes in basements, crawlspaces, and garages are vulnerable to freezing and bursting. We always advise homeowners to insulate those pipes and keep their indoor temperature no lower than 55°F, especially if traveling or leaving a property vacant. Adding Wi-Fi-enabled leak detectors and remote thermostats can offer extra peace of mind.” Even inside the house, pipes are at risk. Beech recommends, “In extremely cold weather, leave cabinet doors open under sinks—this helps warm air circulate around the pipes, which prevents freezing. If the temperature really drops, let the faucet drip slightly to keep water moving. Movement = no freeze.”

FAUCETS

Outdoors, be sure to turn off all exterior faucets and remove hoses. Then attach inexpensive faucet covers to each unit to help prevent freezing and damage. If you don’t have faucet covers, wrap the faucet in a towel and secure it with tape. Natalie Beech, marketing manager at Greg’s Plumbing & Heating, adds, “One of the easiest ways to protect your plumbing is to install a frost-free hose bib. Most people don’t realize that even with the hose removed, traditional outdoor taps can freeze and crack inside the wall if water’s left sitting. Frost-free bibs are designed to shut off water further inside the house, where it’s warmer.”

CLEAN CHIMNEY

You can call a professional to perform a chimney clean and inspection, and you should periodically. However, you can also clean your chimneys yourself with a rented, borrowed, or purchased chimney sweep. Remove all sediment buildup before starting your first fire of the season. Adding protection to the outside of your home helps prevent damage. Build some DIY window shutters or purchase pre-built designs. Depending on where you live, they may stay year-round or only be installed during the storm season. Similarly, make sure to replace storm doors and screens as needed. SHUTTERS AND STORM DOORS

EXTERIOR VENTS

Walk around your house and you’ll see vents along the foundation. These vents help circulate air throughout the seasons, but in the winter, they allow cold air into the base of your house, which can significantly affect the temperature of the home. Head to the home improvement store for simple blocks that fit into the spaces and offer insulation. You can also make your own by cutting thick styrofoam to size.

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Before the short, cold, wet days of winter arrive, be sure to give your porch or deck a little winterizing attention. Clean the surface of the deck with a leaf blower or broom. You may also want to add a mildew prevention product if that’s an issue in your area. Make sure that you make needed repairs to your wood deck to help it survive the elements. Replace any rotting boards. Sand down areas that are peeling. Tighten screws, make sure railings are secure, and re-level stairs before the oversaturated ground shifts things further. DECKS, PATIOS, AND PORCHES

Some patio furniture can stay outside to endure the elements, while others should be put under cover for protection. All outdoor supplies and furniture should be cleaned prior to storage. Apply a layer of protective car wax to aluminum furniture. Touch up scratches and apply a coat of protective spray paint to wrought iron. Clean plastic and bring it inside so it doesn’t get too brittle and crack. Synthetic wicker can handle the elements, but bring rattan indoors to avoid moisture damage. Anything ceramic, from pots to water features to tile tabletops, should be stored indoors. Ceramic will crack and flake in extremely cold temperatures. PATIO FURNITURE

For patios, patch up chips, replace broken stones, and fill in cracks.

For enclosed porches, consider sealing them off for the winter. You can use clear vinyl curtains to repel the rain and keep the leaves out. Panels can be added to screened porches to retain heat and reduce damage to the screening materials.

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POWER EQUIPMENT

Before you need them, check your snowblower and generators to make sure they are tuned up and ready for the season.

CHECK SMOKE DETECTORS AND FIRE EXTINGUISHERS

Make sure your fire safety protocol is in place with a quick check of each smoke and CO2 detector in the home. Replace batteries as necessary and add a battery-powered option in older homes that may not offer a smoke detector on every level and outside every bedroom as part of the wired system. In addition, make sure to have fire extinguishers in the kitchen, garage, and near fire sources such as woodstoves. Make sure your fire extinguisher is charged by looking at the dial on the meter near the top. SPRINKLER SYSTEMS Where there’s water, there is a potential for freezing temperatures to bust a pipe. Once the hot summer watering season ends, winterize your sprinkler system by blowing water out of the system and turning off all valves.

9 November 2025

Jeremy Yamaguchi, CEO of Cabana, offered this advice to homeowners with pools, “If you have an in-ground pool, you may think that in order to winterize it, it must be drained. However, you don’t want to do this. It’s important to keep water in your pool so that it doesn’t crack from the pressure of the surrounding soil. You should lower the water level a few inches, though. Make sure to clean the pool very thoroughly, balance the chemicals, and add shock and algaecide. Make sure everything is turned off and disconnected, and store any removable parts in a dry location. Use a good pool cover and keep the pool covered all season long. It’s never a bad idea to hire professionals to winterize your pool for you, just to make sure every task is completed successfully.” POOL

GUTTERS AND DRAINS In areas that receive heavy precipitation, make sure your gutters and drain pipes are cleaned out so they don’t overflow onto your deck or around the foundation of your home. Also, check French drains running from the backyard to the street for any blockages. Make sure they are running freely so you don’t have back-ups during the heavy rains. The time to act is before winter weather starts to take its toll on your home. Although you can’t predict every possible scenario, completing this checklist will set you on the right path. Beech summarizes, saying, “The key is acting early— once pipes or systems are stressed, it’s damage control.”

HOME SWEET HOME Magazine

If you love autumn and its associated colors, like burgundy, a deep forest green, and terracotta, you will love the warm looks that are trending for kitchen design in 2025. Along with these color choices, incorporating warm and natural elements, including stone and wood, into kitchens to give the space an inviting vibe is very much in vogue. Austere, all white kitchens are outdated in favor of spaces inspired by biophilic designs that call back not only to natural colors but also to earthy shapes and textures. Curved shapes that mirror those found in nature reinforce this aesthetic and can be introduced by incorporating stone or live- edge shelving. Other ways to tie this cozy look together include choosing a paint color from the same earthy palette, introducing texture whenever possible, and making use of natural light sources at every opportunity. Keep in mind that by bringing in a mix of textures, you bring visual variety and flair to your design. Kitchen Tile Trends Embrace the Warmth

11 November 2025

HOME SWEET HOME Magazine

FALL TILE TRENDS FOR KITCHENS Warm Earth Tones: Terracotta, clay, rust, ochre, deep green, and burgundy are the season’s anchor colors. These saturated hues bring cozy warmth to backsplashes, floors, and accent walls, especially when paired with warm wood cabinetry or natural stone counters. Handmade & Textured Finishes: Glossy white subway tile is giving way to handcrafted looks: zellige tiles with rippled surfaces, matte ceramic squares, and natural stone or tumbled travertine. The subtle texture adds depth and a lived-in character that feels welcoming. Patterned encaustic or porcelain tiles in earthy palettes are resurfacing as statement kitchen floors. Checkerboard layouts in warm neutrals, geometric terracotta designs, and small-format mosaics create visual interest while hiding scuffs and crumbs—a practical bonus for busy kitchens. Patterned Statement Floors: Elongated Shapes & Soft Geometry: Elongated subway tiles, slim rectangles, and gently curved scallop or fan shapes are trending as a shift from rigid grid layouts. These softer silhouettes echo natural forms and pair beautifully with arched windows, curved shelving, or rounded islands. Mixed Materials & Borders: Designers are combining materials for layered effects—stone borders framing ceramic tile backsplashes, or wood inlays meeting patterned tile floors. Mixing textures this way nods to traditional craft while giving the kitchen a custom, collected look. Natural Light Pairings: Earth-toned tiles glow under warm light. Many designers are planning tile layouts around windows or adding under- cabinet lighting to highlight color variation and bring out the richness of handmade glazes.

Fresh Ways to Use Tile You Need It

Tile is stepping outside its usual role as just backsplash or flooring. Designers are using it to add pattern and color to unexpected surfaces: tiled kitchen island waterfall sides, oven hoods wrapped in handmade tile, and accent walls that create a focal point behind open shelving. Tile-topped furniture is also becoming a design-forward statement. Whether you use leftover materials from past projects or choose new tiles in autumnal tones, tiling the top of a dining table or prep island creates a striking, custom look that ties the kitchen together. Many designers are pairing warm tile patterns with rustic wood frames to create pieces that feel collected and personal. (Pro tip: Many landscaping and building supply stores sell single full-size tiles—perfect for experimenting with colors and patterns before you commit.)

13 November 2025

DIY SPOTLIGHT: HOW TO TILE A DINING TABLE

Microtrends to Watch Copper or brass grout for a subtle metallic shimmer between tiles.

Oversized checkerboard floors using warm neutrals instead of black-and-white.

Follow these simple steps to create a beautiful, custom tile-top table that complements your kitchen’s autumn-inspired style.

Vertical + horizontal tile mixing in the same space (e.g. vertical stacks on the backsplash, horizontal rows on the island face).

1. Order full-size tile samples: Small cut samples don’t show full patterns. Buying one or two full tiles gives you an accurate visual of how your layout will look. 2. Choose flat-edged tiles: Flat tiles are easier to grout evenly than those with sloped edges. 3. Select the right spacers: Consult your tile retailer for advice on spacing based on tile size and style. 4. Apply adhesive and place tiles: Use ready- mixed adhesive and spacers for consistent placement. 5. Frame the edges: Attach a wood frame around the tabletop to hide tile edges, reinforce corners, and create a smooth surface. 6. Grout the tiles: Follow package instructions, then clean the tiles with a damp cloth once grout sets. 7. Finish the frame: Fill screw holes, sand smooth, then paint or stain the wood (choose waterproof finishes for outdoor use). 8. Seal the tile: Protect your work with a spray tile sealer. 9. Style your table: Add pottery dishware, warm-toned linens, and autumn accents for a welcoming seasonal table.

Tiled range hoods wrapped in handmade or textured tile as a statement focal point.

Tile wainscoting around breakfast nooks or kitchen dining areas for a café-like feel.

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PRO TIPS FOR AN EASIER TILE PROJECT • Use what you have: Check your garage for leftover tile—mix shapes, sizes, or broken pieces to create a mosaic-style top.

• Plan your pattern first: Lay out your tile design before gluing. Puzzle-style mosaics take time but create a one-of-a-kind, conversation-worthy piece. • Extra Tip: Repurpose leftover or broken tiles to create mosaic-style tabletops. This approach gives new life to old materials while letting you craft a one-of-a-kind piece.

• Prep old tables thoroughly: Strip or sand off any varnish, wipe clean with alcohol, and let dry completely before tiling. • Refinish only the frame: If you’re restoring the table, stain and seal the wood base and legs—but leave the tabletop surface bare where tile will go.

15 November 2025

Move over, turkey, there’s a new showstopper in town. This Maple Pecan Brie Pull- Apart Wreath is everything you want on your holiday table: melty brie, buttery crescent dough, a touch of maple sweetness, and the crunch of toasted pecans. The best part? It looks like you spent hours in the kitchen, but it’s ready in under 30 minutes. Place it in the middle of your table and watch guests pull it apart piece by piece, no knives required. A Tasty Thanksgiving Centerpiece MAPLE PECAN BRIE PULL-APART WREATH

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What You’ll Need (Serves 8–10): z 2 cans refrigerated crescent roll dough

z 1 wheel (8 oz) brie cheese, rind on z ½ cup chopped pecans, toasted z ¼ cup pure maple syrup z 2 tbsp unsalted butter, melted z 1 tsp cinnamon z Fresh rosemary sprigs, for garnish

How to Make It: 1. Preheat the oven to 375°F. Line a baking sheet with parchment. 2. Arrange crescent roll triangles in a circle, overlapping the wide ends to form a ring. 3. Place the brie in the center. Top with half the pecans, half the maple syrup, and a sprinkle of cinnamon. 4. Fold the dough points over the brie and filling, tucking them under to create a wreath shape. Brush with melted butter. 5. Bake for 20–25 minutes, until golden brown and bubbling. 6. Drizzle with the rest of the maple syrup, sprinkle with remaining pecans, and tuck in rosemary sprigs for a festive finish

Try This While You Snack: (Fun Thanksgiving activities for the table) z Gratitude Jar Set out a jar with slips of paper and pens. Everyone writes something they’re thankful for, then read them aloud while enjoying the wreath. z Compliment Circle When someone pulls a piece of the wreath, they give a compliment to the person on their left. Instant smiles guaranteed. z Guess the Memory Each guest writes a favorite holiday or family memory anonymously. Mix them up and try to guess who wrote what. z Thanksgiving Bingo Make simple cards with squares like “football on TV,” “someone mentions pie,” or “kids run by.” First to get a line wins.

Serve with: apple slices, crackers, or grapes. Or keep it casual and let everyone tear in straight from the tray. Pro Tip Toast pecans in the oven at 350°F for 5–7 minutes until fragrant. The flavor payoff is huge. Make Ahead Assemble up to Step 4, cover, and refrigerate up to 6 hours. Bake fresh before serving.

17 November 2025

As autumn sets in, yards quickly fill with fallen leaves and branches, and many homeowners look for ways to clear the debris before winter arrives. While backyard burning has long been a go-to method for efficiently clearing piles of excess leaves and trimmed branches, it comes with serious risks—and in many places, it’s no longer allowed. Local restrictions shift with the weather, and dry conditions can keep fire danger high well into the cooler months. Knowing your area’s burn rules, practicing safe fire habits, and exploring non-burning options like composting, mulching, and curbside collection can help you clean up your yard responsibly while protecting your home, your community, and the environment. This guide will help you understand the rules and methods for practicing proper fire safety in fall, as well share alternative ways to handle your yard’s seasonal debris. Many landscaping companies also offer seasonal leaf cleanup and hauling services, which can be especially helpful for large properties or heavy leaf fall. Leaf and Yard Debris Guide BURN RULES AND SAFER ALTERNATIVES FOR FALL YARD CLEANUP

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How to Know the Backyard Burn Regulations in Your Area Whether you use a burn pile, a barrel, a fire pit, campfires, field burns, or even open grills, each type of fire has restrictions. These restrictions change frequently depending on where you live and the current climate conditions. Because of this, burning regulations can be confusing and inconsistent. Be responsible by checking the current fire burn status before any type of burn.

Consider these resources to help you stay informed:

but are often subject to conditions such as time- of-day restrictions, weather limitations, and safety precautions. Failing to secure a permit could not only get you a citation but may also void insurance coverage if the fire gets out of hand. When communicating your needs, be specific about what you’ll be burning and how you plan to go about it. Be sure you read and understand the outlined permit restrictions before beginning any burn. Newsletter : Homeowners’ associations may restrict or prohibit open burning, even if it’s legal in your county. Check the Neighborhood

z Check Government Sites: Find the government site with information about your area. Depending on where you’re located, the Bureau of Land Management, the Forestry Department for your state, or another government agency may provide the most up-to-date information. Hit up Google for a search titled, “Fire restrictions in my area” to find the most relevant information. Remember, also, that fires affect air quality, and bans are put in place when the Department of Environmental Quality (DEQ) feels that burning in stagnant air conditions could create breathing hazards. z Contact the Fire Department: Your local fire department is a great resource for researching the current regulations for your burn. Remember that not all fires are created equal, and while one activity might be allowed, another may be part of a current ban. For example, certain types of grilling are typically allowed during a burn ban, but a backyard campfire, even in a pit, may not be. Even allowed activities often have restrictions related to size or type of fuel. For example, your fire pit may need to be less than three feet in diameter or have a cover. z Get a Permit: In many jurisdictions, backyard burning requires a permit, even for seemingly harmless activities like burning a pile of leaves. When allowed, permits are usually easy to obtain

z Get on Social Media: During burn season, regulations will be a hot topic on local social media groups and pages that report local news. When a burn ban is in effect, the headlines will often announce it. You can also follow federal and local departments that monitor burn activities, as well as groups in your neighborhood. However, don’t take social media as an authority on the subject. Although there may be useful information, always confirm information with the authorities. z Check Often: Regardless of what the report said yesterday, burn classifications can change within hours. Ensure you have the most up-to-date information to avoid fines or worse, dangerous situations.

November 2025

CREATE A SAFE ZONE

Backyard Fire Safety Guidelines Safety is essential for any type of burn, not just leaf burning. So keep these tips in mind when setting up for a cozy fall evening near the firepit. You do not want to be responsible for starting a wildfire or accidentally burning structures on your property. Always practice fire safety when you have an open flame, even if it’s small.

Before you even think about lighting that match, assess your surroundings. Clear a radius of at least 10 to 15 feet around your fire site, removing dry leaves, overhanging branches, or anything else flammable. This is your burn buffer. Choose a spot on bare soil or gravel, not grass or a wooden deck. Better yet, use a designated fire pit, barrel, or metal container.

NEVER LEAVE A FIRE UNATTENDED

This may seem like common sense, but unattended fires are one of the top causes of accidental wildfires. Regulations nearly always require that an adult remain present with tools for extinguishing the fire, such as a hose, shovel, or water buckets. Walking away from an active burn—even for a few minutes—is often a violation of local ordinances.

OBSERVE AIR QUALITY REGULATIONS

Local air quality plays a major role in determining when you can burn. On days when air pollution levels are high, burning may be restricted to avoid compounding respiratory issues for sensitive populations. Many counties designate “burn days” and “no-burn days” based on daily air quality indexes (AQI), especially in areas prone to smog or particulate pollution. COMPLY WITH DISTANCE AND CONTAINMENT RULES Just because you’re on your property doesn’t mean you can build a fire anywhere. Most regulations require a minimum distance between your fire and structures, fences, overhead lines, or wooded areas--and it might be further than you think. Similarly, containment rules often require fires to be built within designated fire pits, burn barrels, or stone rings, especially in urban and suburban settings.

BURN ONLY DRY MATERIALS

Only dry, natural yard debris—like sticks, branches, and leaves—should go into your fire. Burning green material can cause excessive smoke and smoldering, while wet material might not ignite at all, leaving you with a smoky mess and poor air quality. More importantly, never burn trash, plastic, pressure-treated wood, painted lumber, or furniture. These items release toxic fumes that are harmful to your health and the environment, and in many areas, it’s illegal to burn them.

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CHECK THE WEATHER

EDUCATE HOUSEHOLD MEMBERS

Wind is the enemy of backyard burning. Even a light breeze can carry sparks or embers into nearby vegetation, causing fires to spread rapidly. Avoid burning on windy or hot, dry days. If there’s a burn ban or red flag warning in effect, postpone your fire until conditions improve. Always keep an eye on humidity and temperature, both of which affect fire behavior.

Make sure everyone knows fire safety rules, including children and guests. Make fire safety a family affair. Teach kids to respect fire and understand the rules. Set clear boundaries around where they can go, and never allow unsupervised children near an open flame. Inform guests about safety zones and procedures, too, especially if alcohol is involved.

HAVE WATER AND TOOLS READY

Safety starts with preparedness. Before you light your fire, have a water source and extinguishing tools on hand. This could be a garden hose, a bucket of water, a shovel, or even a fire extinguisher. Never assume you’ll have time to get these items once the fire starts—they should be within arm’s reach. A sudden gust of wind or shift in flame direction can change everything in seconds.

OTHER FIRE HAZARDS

Fire restrictions include activities besides monitored burns. Any activity that can create a potentially hazardous spark may be prohibited. They will be listed alongside other burn restrictions and regulations, and may include chainsaw use, welding, and the disposal of smoking products. Fire safety is a shared responsibility, but we don’t have to navigate it alone. Local fire professionals are there to help us make informed decisions about when it’s safe to burn, what materials are allowed, and how to manage fires responsibly. Before you light any kind of fire—whether it’s for yard cleanup or simply enjoying a backyard fire pit—it’s essential to check in with local authorities. They can provide up-to-date regulations and safety guidelines to ensure you’re burning safely and legally.

NEVER USE ACCELERANTS

While it makes a quick flame, pouring gasoline or lighter fluid onto a fire is one of the most dangerous and unpredictable things you can do. These accelerants create explosive flames that can cause severe injuries, especially if vapors accumulate in the air. If your fire needs help getting started, use dry kindling or fire starters designed specifically for the task.

MAINTAIN CONTROL

Keep your fire small, manageable, and under control at all times. Large piles are harder to monitor and more likely to throw off embers. If you’re burning yard waste, do it in small batches rather than all at once.

FULLY EXTINGUISH THE FIRE

Take extra safety steps when the fire is nearly out. Smoldering embers can reignite hours later, especially on windy nights. Ensure there is no fuel for the fire by soaking all remains thoroughly with water. Then stir the ashes with a shovel and repeat until everything is cool to the touch.

September 2024 21 November 2025

MULCHING AND GRASSCYCLING AT HOME

Alternatives to Burning Yard Debris Safety is essential for any type of burn, not just leaf burning. So keep these tips in mind when setting up for a cozy fall evening near the firepit. You do not want to be responsible for starting a wildfire or accidentally burning structures on your property. Always practice fire safety when you have an open flame, even if it’s small.

Shredding leaves and grass clippings with a mulching mower can return nutrients to your soil and reduce the need for fertilizer. You can also use a chipper to turn small branches into wood mulch for flower beds and garden paths. This method keeps organic matter on your property and saves disposal costs.

BACKYARD COMPOST BINS AND LEAF MOLD PILES

If curbside composting isn’t available, consider creating a backyard compost system. Pile leaves and yard trimmings in a bin or designated corner of your yard. Turning the pile periodically helps it break down into rich compost or leaf mold that improves soil health.

CURBSIDE YARD WASTE COLLECTION

Most municipalities offer seasonal or year-round yard waste pickup. Leaves, grass clippings, and small branches can be bundled or bagged according to local guidelines and set out for collection. Check your city or county’s website for schedules, approved bag types (paper vs. plastic), and size or weight limits.

BRUSH AND BULK WASTE DROP-OFF DAYS

A Safer, Cleaner Autumn Clearing away leaves and branches is part of welcoming a new season, but how you do it matters. Whether you choose to burn or opt for collection, composting, or mulching, staying mindful of local regulations and safety practices helps protect your home, your neighbors, and the environment. By planning ahead and using safe, responsible methods, you can keep your yard tidy, reduce fire risk, and enjoy the beauty of fall with peace of mind. Some areas schedule special collection days or operate transfer stations where residents can bring large branches, logs, or other woody debris. This is often the safest way to get rid of heavy or awkward materials that can’t be chipped or composted at home.

COMMUNITY COMPOSTING PROGRAMS

Local composting sites or green waste drop-off centers accept leaves, brush, and grass clippings for processing. These programs keep organic material out of landfills and turn it into nutrient-rich compost or mulch. If your community doesn’t have a program, private landscaping companies sometimes offer pickup or drop-off for a fee.

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Is Now The Right Time to Sell?

To Request a No Obligation Housing Market Report: Call us at 973-500-3253 or Email info@carellyrealty.com .

This is all 100% free with no obligation. After you submit the online questionnaire, you will receive our free report with information that will help you determine your home's value. We recommend printing it out and taking a drive to see the homes we've identified as comparable to yours. See how your home measures up. This will help you get an even more accurate idea of what your home is worth.

An appraiser would charge hundreds for this service, but we will provide one at no cost.

If you would like our free, professional opinion on the value of your home, we'd be glad to help. We can talk on the phone, or we can meet in person. We look forward to helping you!

Kelly & Carl Robinson 973-500-3253 info@CarellyRealty.com carellyrealty.com/digital_magazine www.CarellyRealty.com

Rarely does a home of this caliber come to market. Tucked away on a private road atop one of the highest points in Clinton Township, 1 Rossi Drive offers an unmatched blend of private country living, modern luxury, and breathtaking year-round views. This recently renovated custom raised ranch spans nearly 4,000 sq. ft. of refined living space on 1.5 lush acres, featuring 4 bedrooms, 3.5 bathrooms, and an open floor plan highlighted by bamboo wood floors and abundant natural light. The main level is designed for both comfort and entertaining, boasting a gourmet kitchen with custom cabinetry, an oversized waterfall quartz island, and seamless flow into a sunken living room and great room. Expansive windows and sliders invite sweeping views, while the deck provides the perfect perch for sunsets. The primary suite offers a spa- like ensuite and walk-in closet, joined by three additional bedrooms and a convenient laundry room. The walk-out lower level is ideal for entertaining or a possible in-law suite, with a spacious recreational room, kitchenette/wet bar, fitness area, full bath, storage, and private entrance. Outdoors, a resort-style oasis awaits with an in-ground gunite pool, firepit, and abundant entertaining space. An oversized two-car garage completes the home. Perfectly located minutes from top schools, dining, and shops and under an hour to NYC this rare offering combines luxury, privacy, and convenience in one of Clinton Townships most sought-after settings.

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