Are you ready for winter?

Ah, winter in Iowa consists of 50 degree days and -21 degree days. Days with sun, rain, freezing rain, snow and whiteout conditions all in one day. And days that make you say, “Why didn’t I think about this ahead of time?” Well, here are a few friendly reminders before the temperature drops and the snow starts falling. 

  1. Check your tire pressures
  2. Put air in your tires, you may have to do this weekly depending on the temperature changes
  3. Remove your garden hose
  4. Blow out your irrigation system
  5. Winterize anything you won’t be starting up over the wintertime, hot tub, RV, boat, pool, etc.
  6. Make sure your downspouts are on, connected, and functioning properly
  7. Clean out your gutters
  8. Get your furnace inspected
  9. Get your fireplace cleaned
  10. Have your snow blower tuned up
  11. Purchase an ergonomic shovel if you don’t have one already
  12. Check out these techniques for shoveling snow so you don’t hurt your back
  13. Make sure you have plenty of firewood if you have a wood burning fireplace
  14. Be sure you have gasoline on hand for your snowblower
  15. Be sure that you have good, warm gloves for shoveling along with warm snow boots
  16. Make sure your winter clothes are in good condition, ie. your snow pants and winter coat
  17. Keep an extra blanket in the car
  18. Make sure to always pack extra food and water if you are going on a long trips
  19. Keep an emergency kit in the back of your car
  20. Keep a flashlight in your car and by your bedside table

 

What did we miss? Let us know!