Articles Tagged "winter"

It seems like winter is never going away here in the northern part of Ohio and even across the northern Midwest!  Perhaps the season is starting later and finishing later.  Either way, as residents of this beautiful state, it can sometimes be a daunting challenge to make it through the cold months.   In case you're struggling, here are a few tips from the locals on weathering the winter.

Shovels are Your Friend

No one likes to get out there and do it but, let's face it, if you don't shovel your sidewalk and driveway, there's no going anywhere!   Keeping a clear walkway can prevent slipping and injury for you and any passing neighbors.  Likewise, it seems like a good solution at the time, but just driving over the snow on your driveway only packs it down and turns it to slippery ice.  Make sure you shovel the snow off the drive before you roll your car across it.  You'll thank yourself later.

Salt Prevents Slipping

When the ice is really bad and it's impossible to walk a few steps without slipping and falling, you can put down a scattering of salt brine to help.  The salt will soak up and melt the ice, stabilizing the slippery surfaces and providing traction for your shoes and tires.  Salt can help with sidewalks and driveways.  Unfortunately, it's also really messy and after the northern Ohio snow is all gone, you'll have a residue of salt on your car and across the pavement.  Nothing a little spray of the garden hose can't take off, however.

Let Your Car Warm Up

In the summer time, if you're in a hurry or late for work, you can just jump in your car and take off like a crazy blaze of fire.  Not so in the winter.  When the weather in Ohio is cold and freezing temperatures have settled in overnight, it's important to let the car run for ten minutes or so before driving it anywhere.  Driving a cold engine can cause damage to fluid lines and the transmission.  Don't risk it.  Let the car idle for a few minutes before it goes anywhere.

If you stick with some of the tried and true tips from well-seasoned Ohioans, you'll have no trouble getting through the snowy season and into spring.  While you're here, enjoy some of the beautiful natural landscapes in the parks and wild areas as the snow settles onto naked tree canopies and across lush green pines.