5 Outdoor Activities for When You're Stuck at Home

Being stuck at home doesn't necessarily mean being stuck indoors. It's still possible to social distance while getting a nice dose of fresh air. Here are some things you can do outdoors without leaving home.

1. Do some landscaping

Now is a great time to maintain your outdoor space. Cut the grass, do some gardening or trim some hedges or easy-to-reach tree branches. If you plan to start a project that involves digging, call 811 first to have you underground utility lines located and marked.

2. Fire up dinner

Take cooking out of the kitchen and create a flavorful meal on your outdoor grill. But remember to do it safely; U.S. fire departments respond to about 10,000 home fires involving grills annually. Clean your grill before each use and keep it at least 3 feet away from the house, deck and trees.

3. Stop air leaks around your home

If you've noticed areas in your home that are too hot or cold, you could have air leaks. Check around your home, paying attention to foundation walls, flooring, and door and window frames. Then grab caulk, weatherstripping or another sealant and take advantage of this free time by sealing those leaks.

4. Upgrade your outdoor lighting

Improve curb appeal and home security by adding outdoor lights that come with timers or motion sensors. That will ensure you only have lights on at night or when someone is present. And don't forget to upgrade to energy-saving LED bulbs, which use less energy than incandescents and last much longer.

5. Hang around the fire pit

Light up your fire pit for a relaxing evening with your housemates. To keep everyone safe, make sure your fire pit is at least 10 feet away from flammable materials, keep a bucket of water nearby in case you have to extinguish the flames, and never leave the fire unattended.

With a little effort and time, you can make your home more comfortable, lower your energy costs and spend some time outdoors. When you're all finished, reward yourself with a warm coffee or refreshing cold drink to enjoy on your porch or patio.