Ottawa's First Snowfall: Are You Prepared?
A Few Things to Check Before the Snow Arrives
Ottawa winters can arrive quickly, and the first snowfall is a good reminder to get your home, driveway and vehicles ready for the season ahead.
A Few Things to Check Before the Snow Arrives:
Snow Removal Equipment: Get your snow shovel or snowblower ready. If you use a snowblower, check the oil, fuel and operation before the first major snowfall.
Stock Up on Ice Melt: Keep salt or an appropriate ice-melting product on hand for driveways, steps and walkways. Consider a pet- and surface-friendly option where appropriate.
Prepare Your Vehicle: Install winter tires before temperatures consistently drop below 7°C. Check your windshield washer fluid, battery, wipers and emergency supplies.
Clear Outdoor Areas: Move patio furniture, garden hoses and seasonal items into storage before snow and ice accumulate.
Shut Off Outdoor Taps: Go to your basement, crawl space, or utility room near the location of the outdoor spigot. Turn the valve clockwise or perpendicular to the pipe line to shut off the water supply. Once the supply is turned off, open the exterior faucet to allow any remaining water to drain. Return inside to the shut-off valve, place a small cup or bucket underneath and carefully loosen or open the small bleeder cap/screw to drain the water trapped between the indoor valve and the outside wall.
Improve Outdoor Safety: Make sure exterior lights are working and that walkways, stairs and handrails are in good condition.
Check Drainage: Make sure water drains away from your driveway, walkways and home's foundation rather than pooling in low areas.
Clean Up Leaves and Debris: Remove accumulated leaves, dirt and debris from walkways and outdoor steps to help reduce slippery conditions.
A little preparation can help keep your property safe, accessible and ready for whatever an Ottawa winter brings!