Organize really important documents like birth certificates, social security cards, medical records, and insurance policies that are not kept in a safe deposit box or elsewhere. These should immediately be labeled and stored in a fireproof box. While it may not be the most fun part of settling in, securing important documents cannot be overlooked and can save you from big headaches.

Locate important controls like shut-off valves and circuit breakers—both locally and for the whole home—so you can access them quickly in an emergency. Many homes have a number of locations you should identify, both inside and outside.

Test your smoke detectors so you can address any malfunctions before a crisis occurs. Repeat this every few months to ensure they’re in proper working order.

Create a home maintenance checklist and establish your maintenance calendar as soon as possible. In addition to obvious things like HVAC service, be sure to include services you may not have needed in your former home such as landscaping, snow removal, or pool maintenance.

Change the locks and create a lockout plan. Install a garage keypad, hide a key in a secure place, or give an extra one to a trusted neighbor or friend. And yes, it happens to just about everyone, so create a plan now before you lock yourself out of the house.

Get to know your neighbors. If the past year has taught us anything, it’s that when disaster strikes, we need our neighbors. Good neighbors not only enrich your life, but they can literally save it, so take time to cultivate these relationships now, when things are good.

Review your homeowners insurance. Chances are you updated your policy before you moved into your new home, but most of us don’t spend a lot of time thinking about our homeowners policy once we’re settled in. Be sure to review and update your coverage regularly, especially as your assets grow over time.

Learn more about  Homeowners Insurance.