Get Your Lake Arrowhead Mountain Home Ready for Winter
Winter is just around the corner! I know, because several mornings this week, temps dipped to a burrrry 31 degrees. This was my first clue to getting the old cabin ready for winter. If mountain folks don't prepare, they may face some expensive problems (like broken pipes, for one).
Below are a few tips to get your Lake Arrowhead (mountain) home"prepared" for "Old Man Winter."
Fireplace: It's a perfect time, if you haven't already, to call a Chimney Sweep. He/she can make sure your fireplace is not only clean, but safe.
Roof: Is your roof ready for rain and snow? A good check-up may be in order.
Landscaping: Sprinklers (irrigation systems) should be turned off and hoses drained.
Pipes! Make sure exposed pipes are "wrapped." These problems can be soooo expensive IF they freeze and burst.
Weekend cabin/home: If you're a part-timer, make sure you drain your pipes before heading home, and turn off the water. A SHUT OFF VALVE is an awesome item to have installed.
Doors and Windows: Weather-stripping and caulking should be your best friend!
Gutters: Clean them of leaves and pine-needles.
Power Outages: In case the power goes out (and it can!): Make sure you have plenty of candles, extra flashlights, loads of batteries & a lantern or two and matches. Generators are always helpful.
Snow Equipment: Place your snow shovels in an easy-to-get-to spot. If you have a snow blower, it's a great time to take it for a "check up."
Food and Drinking Water: Bottled water and can(non-perishable) goods should be on hand (3-4 days...just in case)
Helpful (local) sites for tips and supplies:
Enjoy your home... enjoy winter...don't be caught off guard.
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Mother Nature and Old Man Winter are getting ready to meet.
Kat, you are so right that everyone in the snow belts should be ready for the winter months with provisions to keep them going if they can't get "going"!!!
Kat, Really good information in your post. The only time of the year that I'm glad to be down the mountain - during the winter months. But I've had my share of snow and ice, having lived most of my life in Utah and Ohio.
Kat - this is excellent advice, because old man winter can rear his head at any time. Good resources as well!
Caren: I think so, too. And I haven't even touched on our cars, yet.
Vicki: I don't blame you... after a few cold wet months, I look forward to trips "down" the mt. :-)
Sharon: For sure.. you can't trust Old Man Winter!!! Tee hee