Surviving winter involves staying warm, safe, and prepared for all the cold-weather challenges. Here are some clever tricks to help you get through the season:
- Ceiling Fans in Winter: If you have a ceiling fan, make sure it spins clockwise in winter. This will push the warm air that rises back down into the room, helping to circulate heat more efficiently.
- Bubble Wrap for Window Insulation: Did you know you can use bubble wrap to insulate your windows? Simply place the bubble wrap between the window and screen to help keep the cold out and the warmth in.
- Maintain a Minimum Indoor Temperature: Keep your home heated to at least 65°F (18°C) to avoid issues like frozen pipes and uncomfortable living conditions during cold spells.
- Let Faucets Drip: To prevent water in your pipes from freezing, open both hot and cold water faucets slightly to let them drip. This keeps water flowing, reducing the chances of freezing.
- Salt Your Path: After shoveling snow, always salt your walkways and driveway to prevent ice buildup. This will help keep them clear and safe.
- Insulate Pipes with Foam: Wrap your water pipes with foam insulation to minimize the risk of freezing. This is particularly important for pipes in unheated areas.
- Dry Shoes with Newspaper: Avoid drying wet shoes directly near a heat source, as it can cause shrinkage. Instead, stuff them with newspaper to draw out moisture and help them dry faster.
- Prevent Windshield Wiper Freeze: During snowstorms, keep your windshield wipers from freezing to the windshield by pointing them up in the air and covering them with old socks.
- Defog Car Windows: Shaving cream contains ingredients similar to commercial defoggers. Wipe it on the inside of your car windows to reduce fogging.
- Unlock Frozen Car Doors: If your car door locks are frozen, rub some hand sanitizer over the key before inserting it into the lock. The alcohol helps break up the ice.
- Gain Traction in Snow: If your car is stuck, place your car’s floor mats upside down under the driving tires to gain traction and help you get unstuck.
- Cat Litter for Tire Traction: Keep a bag of cat litter in your car. It can help create traction if you get stuck in snow or ice, getting your car moving again.
- Brighten Car Headlamps: Use a mixture of baking soda and toothpaste to clean your car headlamps. This combination helps clear up clouded lenses and improves visibility.
- DIY De-Icer: Make your own de-icer by mixing three parts white vinegar to one part water. Use it on everything from car windshields to front steps to melt ice quickly.
- Park Facing East: If possible, always park your car facing east. The morning sun will help defrost your windshield naturally, saving you time in the morning.
By using these winter survival tips, you can stay warm, and safe, and make your life a little easier during the colder months.
