Tips on Getting Ready for Winter

While townhome and condominium residents fortunately don’t have to deal with plowing snow (a perk of living in an association!), there still are some suggestions for preparing for winter.

Since the snow will stay in the Twin Cities before we know it, here are some friendly reminders to get ready for winter:

• Bring in or store any items that you don’t want buried under the snow, such as plants, toys, outdoor games, etc.
• Get your winter clothes and gear out of the closet – do your coats, snow boots and snow pants still fit and are they in good condition?
• Make sure that your furniture isn’t blocking your heating vents.
• When it’s really cold, remember to keep cabinet doors – particularly in the kitchen and bathrooms – open to allow warm air to circulate around pipes.
• Get your car ready – put a winter survival kit in the trunk, top off fluids such as antifreeze and windshield wiper fluid, and keep bagged salt in your truck for extra traction.
• Remember to keep your windows closed, as they could freeze open or break the track.
• As you should be doing throughout the year, remember to regularly change your furnace filter.
• Going on a trip to a warm climate? Lucky you! Check out this blog post.

With adequate preparation, your winter will go smoother – and then spring will be here!

(Photo credit: Tim Griffin via Flickr cc)