As winter approaches, residents in the Westside are being encouraged to prepare their homes, vehicles and yards for the season’s typical rain and wind.

While snow is not a concern in this part of California, winter storms often bring heavy downpours, gusty winds and saturated soil — conditions that can lead to costly damage if left unaddressed.

Local officials and home experts recommend tackling the following tasks before the first major storm rolls through:

Home Maintenance

• Clean gutters and downspouts to prevent overflow and foundation damage.
• Inspect roof shingles and flashing for signs of wear or leaks.
• Seal windows and doors to keep out drafts and moisture.
• Test sump pumps and drainage systems to ensure water flows away from the home.
• Stock up on sandbags if your property is prone to pooling or minor flooding.

Vehicle Readiness

• Check tire tread and pressure to ensure safe driving on wet roads.
• Replace windshield wipers and top off washer fluid for clear visibility.
• Test battery strength, as cold snaps can strain older batteries.
• Confirm headlights and brake lights are working properly.
• Keep an emergency kit in the trunk with a flashlight, jumper cables, rain gear and basic tools.

Yard and Garden Prep

• Trim overhanging branches to reduce the risk of wind damage.
• Secure patio furniture, umbrellas and decor that could blow away or cause damage.
• Rake leaves and clear storm drains to prevent blockages and localized flooding.
• Mulch garden beds to protect roots and reduce erosion.
• Shut off and drain outdoor faucets to prevent pipe damage during cold snaps.

Brush and Leaf Pick-Up Services

In Newman, brush pick-up begins Nov. 1. Piles must be no longer than 4 feet and no thicker than 4 inches in diameter. Residents should place brush one foot from the curb and avoid including stumps, dirt, bags, palm fronds or grass clippings. For more information, contact Bertolotti Disposal at 1-800-221-1257.

In Gustine, you can dispose of leaves through your regular curbside yard waste bin, schedule a special drop-off for green waste at the city's Carnation Avenue site, or use your biannual on-call cleanup service for larger amounts. You can also take yard waste to regional landfills like Fink Landfill or Billy Wright Landfill. 

Local hardware stores and auto shops are stocked with seasonal supplies.

Taking a weekend to prep now can save you a lot of stress and expense later. It’s about protecting your investment and keeping your family safe.

For more tips or to report storm-related concerns, residents can contact their city’s public works department or visit official city websites.