Does It Snow in Gig Harbor?
If you were in town last Christmas and New Years, then you undoubtedly experienced the not-so-typical snowfall here in Gig Harbor. During those two weeks we got 9 inches of snow, and the colder-than-usual temperatures made sure it stuck around for awhile.
But what is normal for Gig Harbor? We usually get a light dusting of snow in November or December, which is fun, but it doesn’t stick around for long. If it snows hard, like last Christmas, then it’s usually in February. Every two years or so we get that dumping of snow where after a week we are all super ready for it to disappear so we can get back to misty rain and on with our day.
Seeing there is always a possibility for a dusting or even a dumping, today I’m sharing some tips to make sure you’re well prepared the next time that magical white stuff starts falling from the sky.
Water, Water, Everywhere
To prevent leaks and burst pipes, wrap them with insulation prior to a cold spell (check for and fix any current cracks or leaks first!), and line any spaces that get cold easily, such as attics or basements. Keep garage doors closed so any pipes in there stay as warm as possible, and opening doors to under-sink cabinets can help warm air circulate. If you will be away for an extensive amount of time, turn your faucets on to a drip—that way any ice that builds up in the pipes will melt from the running water. If you believe that some of your pipes have frozen, warm them up with a hair dryer or turn on an electric heater nearby until the water pressure comes back. And just remember, if at least one of your pipes has frozen, then be sure to check them all, as you will most likely have more. For outside irrigation, thoroughly drain the lines and cover outside hose bibbs, as both can freeze easily.
Skip the Shovel
The activity of shoveling snow can increase your heart rate and raise blood pressure, while the cold temperature can constrict your blood vessels. If you are older, have a heart condition, or are at high risk for one, put the shovel away and see if someone else is able to help you with the task. Since landscapers and gardeners are pretty much out of work in snowy weather, some might offer services to keep the areas surrounding your home free of snow. If you do feel up to the task, avoid injury by stretching first and make sure you’re dressed warm enough! Also, try nonstick cooking spray on your snow shovel—it will keep the snow from sticking.
Walk Like a Penguin
Yes, you read that right! To avoid slips and injuries, the first rule of thumb is to wear shoes that have good tread or traction, and the second recommendation is to walk with a wide gait—like a penguin—or take steps that are more like a shuffle. Don’t walk with your hands in your pockets, either, so be sure you have gloves! Even if the temperatures have been well above freezing for a few days and the snow is mostly or completely melted, watch out for any remaining areas of ice (think places that are shady, slippery when wet, or that might be hard to notice ice has formed because of the color or texture). You can also try cat litter on your driveway and sidewalks, as it gives better traction than rock salt.
Have Some Food In Reserve
Seeing that Gig Harbor doesn’t usually get a lot of snow, enough at one time can potentially shut the town down. To prevent any last-minute runs to the store, or in the event that stores have reduced hours or food deliveries are delayed, make sure you have a few extra days’ worth of food on hand. Consider freezing leftovers, add some items to your dry and canned goods shelf (include foods that don’t require cooking or refrigeration), and pick up some extra gallons of water (the recommended amount is one gallon per person per day). And if the power does go out, while it might be tempting to store your food outside, don’t! Even if it seems cold enough, there isn’t enough consistency with outside temperatures to know that your food won’t spoil. Rather, put lots of ice in the freezer and don’t open the refrigerator more than absolutely necessary. Pitch any perishable food if it has been over 40 degrees for over two hours.
Driving and Car Care
If you aren’t able to stay at home when the weather is bad, be cautious when driving. Be on the lookout for pavement that is shiny, especially early in the morning and at night, as this means there could be black ice. Be cautious also driving over bridges, as the cold air flowing under them causes them to freeze faster than the rest of the road. If you do hit black ice and begin to lose control, don’t try to fight the swerve; instead, turn your steering wheel in the direction of the swerve. Don’t slam on the brakes, either! Take your foot off the gas and come to a stop slowly. You can start to brake gently as you slow down, or if you have enough room just let the car come to a stop on its own. All in all, do your best to stay calm, as panicking won’t help the situation much.
Not that we have extreme temperatures or weather to deal with here in Gig Harbor, but a little proactive care can go a long way in terms of making sure your car is in top-notch condition and safe to drive:
Lower temperatures can greatly affect tire pressure, so if you haven’t lately, check the pressure on both regular and snow tires. Irregular wear in tires can point to issues with traction, alignment, inflation, and shocks.
It might be tempting to turn your car on and let it warm up before you have to go anywhere, but did you know that letting your car idle can actually damage the spark plugs?
Don’t wait to fill up your car until it’s almost on empty, as that increases the chance of your fuel lines freezing before you can get to a station.
Don’t use water that’s too warm to defrost your windshield, as you could crack the glass.
To prevent damage to your car and exhaust system, avoid driving in deep snow if at all possible.
Going on a long trip? Have your car battery tested—the last thing you want to deal with in bad weather or cold temperatures is a dead battery.
Now is also a good time to replace your windshield wiper blades if necessary, and leaving them up at night will prevent them from freezing to the windshield.
Ice means that stopping your car could be more difficult, so be sure to check that your brakes are working properly.
If it’s sunny and you’re able to park your car facing east, this will help keep your vehicle warm as well as melt any snow and ice that has collected.
Frozen door handle on your car? Use some hand sanitizer, which can help thaw it.
Emergency Supplies
Thankfully forecasts can help predict any changes in the weather, but if you happen to be traveling or on the road when bad weather hits, it’s always good to have a few essentials at the ready:
Jumper cables, a spare tire, first aid kit, and cell phone chargers are some things you should never be without, whatever the weather. And to keep your phone usable for a much longer period of time, consider a phone-charging block.
In the event that you get stuck in a snow drift, a shovel and pickaxe will come in handy.
Cat litter to the rescue—again. It can be great for getting your tires to grip if you find yourself in a slippery situation.
Always have warm blankets (or even a sleeping bag) and additional winter clothes on hand in case your car breaks down—they could end up saving your life. Be sure to have a hat and gloves at the ready, too.
Having some non-perishable food and a few gallons of water stowed away is never a bad thing.
Probably most of us don’t have road flares in our car, but if you consider adding them to your stash, get the battery-powered ones as they will last longer than the ones that burn.
In the event of a power outage, some in-home emergency supplies you’ll want on hand are:
Flashlight and batteries.
A heating source, such as a wood-burning stove or battery-powered heater (and did you know if you put a piece of tin foil behind a heater it can help warm things up faster?).
Hand-crank or battery-powered radio.
Extra blankets.
Finally. . .
Now that you know some ways to stay safe in winter weather, don’t forget to have FUN when it snows! Turn your driveway or any hills in the neighborhood into a sled run, make a snowman, or have a snowball fight—it’s a great way to check “trip to the snow” off your winter bucket list!
Paige Schulte, top real estate agent in Gig Harbor and your neighborhood expert, has all you need to know about our wonderful community. Visit Paige’s Gig to learn more.
Interested in selling your current home or starting the search for your dream home? Call us today at (253) 313-4093 or book a call at your convenience.