As the season changes, City administrators remind residents to check grill propane tank hoses and garden hoses for activities of local wildlife. 

Common backyard critters like chipmunks and squirrels often gnaw on hoses, which can lead to gas leaks for propane grills and increased risk of fire. Taking a few minutes to check for chew marks, cracks or brittle spots can help save lives. While damaged garden hoses pose less of a safety risk, they can lead to water leaks and higher water bills in addition to possible structural damage and mold.

Recommendations are as follows:

• Dedicate a few minutes to a routine inspection to mitigate potential problems.

• Make this inspection a regular part of your seasonal home maintenance routine.

• Replace damaged hoses to prevent costly repairs, dangerous incidents and unnecessary waste of resources.