Preparing for Winter (In Places That Don’t Get Winter)
In 2019, the city of Redding, CA received more snow in a single day than Boston had the entire season. Last year, sunny Tucson, AZ — where the average temperature is 84°F — experienced snow.
While every place experiences winter, being prepared for winter’s worst is no longer limited to northern states. Whether you’re in Albuquerque or Atlanta, San Antonio or Scottsdale, take these cold weather tips to ensure you’re ready for whatever comes this winter.
Slipping on ice — is not so nice.
Warmer states tend to have more of an ice problem than colder states. This is because these states and their residents are often less prepared to deal with ice and because temperatures can hover right around freezing. It might be rainy and in the 40s one evening in Georgia, only to freeze overnight and turn driveways into the world’s worst slip-n-slide.
Stock up on at least one of the following things — even if you don’t use them this year, they’ll last for years to come:
- Rock salt: A bag of salt is your best bet because it melts the ice. Plus, there will be leftover traction (salt particles) once the ice melts. One downside: Rock salt doesn’t work as well at 10°F and lower.
- Sand: Sand creates traction on top of the ice, but doesn’t melt it. Even in the coldest of temperatures, sand helps tires and boots grip better.
- Kitty Litter: Kitty litter should really only be used in desperate times. It provides some traction but ultimately absorbs the water because it’s mostly clay.
A bag of water-softener salt can also work in a pinch, but your best bet is rock salt.
Put down some paper — invest in a scraper.
True story: this writer lived near Phoenix, AZ, then traveled to Colorado and learned the hard way that she didn’t have a car scraper.
A car scraper is a best and quickest way to eliminate snow and ice on your windshield. Even if you don’t use a scraper this year, even if you think defrosting will work fine, you never know! There are countless scenarios and places where a scraper will come in handy. Drop the 10 or 15 bucks now for a lifetime of protection.
Show your hands love — get some gloves.
Living in a warm place and buying the proper winter attire doesn’t make you weak, it means you’re smart! There’s no reason to suffer months of mild cold, because mild cold is still “cold.” Consider getting a warmer jacket, a pair of gloves, a headband or hat, and winter boots. Again, even if you don’t use them now, there’s a good chance you will eventually.
Traveling near or far — stock up your car.
Breakdowns do happen. Road closures occur. No one wants to skid into a ditch on a particularly frosty night, but unexpected occurrences don’t wait for when you’re ready.
Pack up your car with the following things to ensure you’ll be set for winter:
- Blankets
- Non-perishable food items
- Water bottles
- Reflective cones or signs
- First aid kit
- Paper towels
- Phone charger (preferably a car charger, but consider buying a portable charger if your car doesn’t have charging capabilities)
Another true story: This writer was in a car that broke down on a country road at 8 p.m. on a Sunday in February. It took over an hour for AAA to arrive and the battery was dead. Everyone in the car was so grateful for the blankets!
Cold weather tips might seem pointless if you’re not in a place with cold weather, but recent years and patterns have shown otherwise. Ice storms, blizzards, and cold snaps can happen to anyone, anywhere.
Wherever you are, RealtyHive is your local real estate expert. Whether looking for a home in super sunny El Centro or wanting to tough it out in Montana, our real estate listings have it all.
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