The Harmattan season, characterized by dry and dusty winds, can take a toll on homes. To maintain and protect your property, here’s a comprehensive Harmattan Home Maintenance Checklist:

1. Outdoor Areas

• Roof     Inspection: Check for loose or missing shingles and repair any damages     to prevent debris accumulation and potential leaks.
• Clean     Gutters: Clear out leaves, dirt, and debris to ensure proper water     drainage.
• Windows     and Doors: some text
   
  • Inspect      for gaps and seal them to prevent dust entry.
   
  • Clean      and lubricate hinges and locks to avoid stiffness caused by dust.
 
• Exterior     Walls: Wash down walls to remove accumulated dust and apply a     protective coat if needed.
• Waterproofing:     Ensure exterior coatings are intact to protect against unpredictable     Harmattan rain showers.

2. Indoor Areas

• Air     Conditioning Units: some text
   
  • Clean      or replace filters to improve air quality.
   
  • Service      units to ensure they work efficiently in dusty conditions.
 
• Ceilings     and Fans: Dust off ceiling fans and fixtures to prevent dust     circulation.
• Windows:     some text
   
  • Clean      glass and frames.
   
  • Use      heavy curtains or blinds to block out dust.
 
• Flooring:     Mop or vacuum regularly to control dust accumulation.
• Furniture     and Upholstery: Vacuum, clean and dust sofas, curtains, and carpets     frequently.

3. Utilities and Systems

• Electrical     Fixtures: Dust and inspect sockets, switches, and appliances for     safety.
• Water     Supply System: some text
   
  • Check      storage tanks and pipes for leaks.
   
  • Cover      water tanks securely to prevent dust contamination.
 
• Generators:     Service and clean regularly to ensure efficiency.
• Smoke     and Fire Alarms: Test and clean to ensure functionality.

4. Garden and Surroundings

• Landscaping:     some text
   
  • Prune      dry branches to reduce debris.
   
  • Water      plants regularly to counteract dryness.
 
• Driveways     and Patios: Sweep and wash to reduce dust accumulation.
• Outdoor     Furniture: Cover or store them to protect from dust damage.

5. Personal Safety

• Protective     Gear: Keep masks handy to protect against dusty conditions.

Emergency Kits: Have first aid supplies, flashlights, andemergency contacts ready for unexpected weather changes.