Finally! Winter is here. If you’re outdoorsy, you’ll definitely love winter as it brings loads of fun activities such as ice skating, skiing, and sledding. Winter is also the perfect time to chill inside with a steaming cup of coffee while catching up on the latest Netflix TV shows.
Snow, ice, and freezing temperatures make driving, especially during winter, a lot more demanding. We are tasked with scraping ice off our windows, shoveling snow, ensuring safe levels of tire pressure, making sure our tires have excellent traction and so much more. It is crucial you prepare for winter.
Once the temperature drops, there is some essential winter equipment you need to pack up. We’ve rounded up 8 winter equipment you need during the winter season and amazing tips on how to prepare your home for the snow season.
Gear up!
1. A Collapsible shovel:
Shovels are necessary equipment during winter, but having a compact, portable shovel that you can take on the go is a smart move. You’ll need to clear a path and dig your car out of a snowstorm or a snow-covered road. So carry one in your trunk. Choose a collapsible shovel made of robust and durable material and space-efficient.
2. Rock, Cat, Salt, or Sand litter:
Have you ever been stuck in the snow with your tires spinning out of hand? And even though you keep pumping them with gas, they won’t stop spinning. Daunting, right? Some cars still lose traction even with brand new tires.
Litter comes in handy during winter. It’s an easy and affordable solution. Pour the litter underneath the tires with zero traction and voila! You can drive away from slippery ice and snow. The coarse material allows your tires to gain traction if your vehicle is stuck in the snow.
3. Fluffy blanket and warm clothes:
Being stranded during the cold winter is quite a huge inconvenience. It could mean you wait for long hours with no heat. Wrap up in a fleece blanket and warm clothes such as hand warmers, warm coat, gloves, goggles, rain jacket, and a hat. Bundle up to prevent frostbite and get all toasty warm during winter!
Cold weather can constrict blood vessels and increase blood pressure. When the temperatures are near freezing, wearing the best winter work gloves will do the trick.
4. Snow & ice scrapper and de-icer:
If you’re a driver, you know how handy a snow and ice scraper is during winter. Ice and snow on cars are risky as it could obstruct your view and cause an accident. You can effectively clear your windows and headlights of snow prior to driving instead of using your hands.
The ice scraper and de-icer are winters must-haves. An ice scraper/snow brush is useful though it requires manual effort. A spray de-icer speeds up the removal of snow and ice from your windscreen. Consider buying a sturdy ice scraper to last you a lifetime.
5. First aid kit
A complete first aid kit at hand is a lifesaver. You can’t afford to lack one during winter. Carrying one with you is a wise move. It will come in handy when you need to deal with minor injuries. A portable complete first aid kit should contain the following essentials:
- Dressings
- Sterile cleansing wipes
- Scissors
- Wash-proof plasters in varying sizes
- Revive-Aid resuscitation face shield
- Nitrile powder-free gloves.
6. Boots with a firm grip
During winter, you should always wear sensible footwear to avoid sliding and injuring yourself. Invest in boots with a good grip. Winter brings loads of slippery ice and snow. So if you are planning on exiting the vehicle, wear boots with a sturdy grip.
Consider wearing mountaineering boots. Alternatively, get snow grips to slide on overshoes. Just ensure your footwear has excellent traction, prevents you from slipping over and is waterproof.
7. Snow chains
Snow chains are the ultimate all-weather accessory, especially during winter. They are fitted around your car’s wheels. They plow into the snow and create superior traction to what snow socks or snow tires can provide.
In most continental ski resorts, it is a must you fit snow chains on your car’s wheels. Snow chains are only applicable on snow-covered surfaces and reduce the tire’s grip when used on clear roads.
8. Emergency signal devices
Flares are a lifesaver when you’re stuck in the snow. You can use them to start an emergency signal fire. They are also visible even in heavy snow conditions. Battery-powered signals are also a worthy alternative. They have a more extended staying power compared to flares.
How to prepare your home for winter
Winter is on its way, and I bet you’re packing up tons of warm jackets, boots and scarves. Hearty stews and soups are back on the menu. Prepare your home for the next few cold months with these tried and true tips:
1. Ensure proper home insulation:
With appropriate insulation, you ensure your home is cool during summer and warm during winter. It’s a sure way of reducing your electricity bill and saving up in the long term since you spend less money on additional heating systems.
2. Switch to gas:
Gas is an energy-efficient, economical and practical way to keep warm while reducing electricity costs during winter. Invest in a quality fireplace or gas heater. You can also consider other heating solutions such as wall panel heaters or electric blankets for their cost efficiency, safety and easy installation.
3. Evaluate the structure of your home:
Evaluate the structure of your home from doors to walls, windows, roofs, and floors for any areas where cold air can seep in through like cavities in walls or cracks in windows. Plus any other places that are not airtight.
Ensure your windows are crack-free, doors correctly fitted, and clear drains and gutters of any debris. Preparing for the extreme weather will go a long way in safeguarding your home.
Bottom line:
Snow, freezing temperatures and ice. With a little prep, you’ll be in a better position to deal with any winter nuisances. Stash these must-have equipment during winter. They can be lifesavers.
