Winter Weather Preparedness
- February 28, 2022
- Guest Information
It been a relatively mild winter by local standards; but, it is worth sharing some tips to keep safe during this time of year.
A number of our properties are located in fairly remote spots (think no cell service, no ambient light and few neighbors) so planning ahead makes sense. For starters, check the weather forecast. Sure, I know the weather forecast can be shamefully inaccurate and prone to push everyone to grab some bread and milk just to feel a little safer but, check where you are headed before you leave. Even a few days before your travel date is a good idea.
Next, think about things you should have in your vehicle pretty much from December 1st to March 31st. I like to keep a small safety stash of clothes, water, hand warmers, flash lights, extra batteries and a protein bar or two. Speaking of vehicles, did you leave with your gas tank full? Do you have good quality tires? How about 4WD/AWD? I have a 4WD, diesel pick up with deep tread, sand and snow tires. They are the type of sand/snow tires that I use when my wife wants to go “see the horses” in the Outer Banks (and never worry about getting stuck and paying $400 to be pulled out). I can pretty much go anywhere at any time with my vehicle and I still avoid travel unless I really have to (like getting to your vacation rental). Emergency bags, 4WD, and good tires may seem like simple and obvious things but you would be surprised how many guests attempt to go to ski country in a Prius. Generally, the outcome results in a painful phone call. You will see on some of our listings where we really, really urge folks to be sure they have 4WD/AWD. We provide this note because, unfortunately, some guests just thought it “wouldn’t be that bad”.
Also, think about the route you travel. We have a cabin that the quickest way to get there is through a windy, country road with steep elevation changes. It’s the best way 9 months out of the year to get us there quickly. However, on a wintry night, it’s the worst route to pick–so, we stay with a snow emergency route (if we have to travel).
Let’s have a safe “getaway with us” for the rest of the winter season.