A Winter “To Do” List

1. Stock up on staples – buy items you like to eat including some things that require little or no cooking
2. Winter clothing update
   1. Check for fit – for both adults and children
   2. Boots, hats, gloves, coats – depending on your location and your outdoor exposure
   3. Layers for added warmth – plan on thermal underwear, sweaters and jackets, ear covers
3. Winterize your garden
   1. Clean up garden beds discarding dead plants
   2. Mulch items that overwinter
   3. Prepare protective coverings for cold hardy plants
   4. Final harvest – before a hard freeze ruins them
   5. Bring some plants inside – herbs are always welcome and add a flair to foods
   6. Put away plant cages – tomato cages need to be cleaned and stacked
   7. Store irrigation timers, removing batteries and put hoses inside after draining
4. Plans to stay warm
   1. Sealing the windows and doors to minimize cold drafts
   2. Generator & fuel for power outages – run monthly to keep battery charged and seals lubricated
   3. Alternative energy sources – wood or biomass logs
5. Prepare to shelter & feed livestock including pets
6. Organize emergency tools together
   1. Flashlights and lanterns – extra batteries and oil
   2. Shovels and ice scrappers
   3. Water turn-off tool in case of burst pipe; cover outside spigots
7. Winterize your vehicle
   1. Emergency supplies to eat, drink & keep warm for your emergency car kit
   2. Check battery health – clean up any battery cable corrosion
   3. Fill windshield washer reservoir with fluid containing antifreeze solution
   4. Check radiator antifreeze level
   5. Check tire pressure to reduce wear on tires
   6. Keep a bag of kitty litter in the car to help get out of slippery places

8. Pick an indoor hobby