Freelance Writing Jobs | Today's Articles | Sign In

Articles
Writers
 
Browse Sections
Home Apartment Living

Winterizing


Winter is setting in quickly and in some parts there are already freeze warnings and ice on the ground. But if you are like the other thousands of renters who live in complexes where the stairs are on the outside and your car is parked under a makeshift covering, then you might want to read a few tips to protect yourself and your car this winter.

Winterizing your car:
There are several steps you should go through when you prepare your car for the cold weather, especially if you live in an area where it freezes for long periods of time.

  • Keep a window scraper handy.
  • Add a special de-icer product to your fuel to prevent icing during the freezing period. Ask your local automotive supply store workers about it.
  • Check your antifreeze mixture. A mix with about 50% water and 50% antifreeze can resist freezing down to 0 degrees Fahrenheit. Some supply stores provide antifreeze mixtures designed for colder climates.
  • Check your tires. Low tires or worn tires can be dangerous on slippery roads.
  • If you are likely to drive in snowy and icy conditions, ask your supply store about snow-resisting windshield wipers.
  • It’s a good idea to carry an extra blanket, flashlight, jumper cables, and bottle of water just in case of emergencies.
  • Get an oil change before the cold months come and ask for special oil that will endure the freezes.
  • If your car won’t start after several attempts to crank the engine, wait a few minutes. Usually the car just needs a break between cranks. Check your owner’s manual for specific instructions on cold starts.
  • If possible, cover your car if there is chance for icy rain.

Keeping your pets warm:
If at all possible, keep your pets indoors during the cold months. If pets must be kept outside, give them plenty of water, a warm box and blanket, and plenty of food. Try to block out as much wind and rain as possible.
While walking your dogs, be sure to keep their feet free from too much ice. Wipe their paws and check for frostbite. If the paw is reddish or peeling, it might have frostbite. Ask your dog’s vet about protecting your pooch during walks in the winter. Dog sweaters and booties might be a cute answer to keeping them warm.
For indoor pets, be sure to keep things like Christmas tree lights and tinsel away. And keep your pets away from chocolate.

The copyright of the article Winterizing in Apartment Living is owned by Wendy Waid. Permission to republish Winterizing in print or online must be granted by the author in writing.

Go To Page: 1 2 3

Articles in this Topic    Discussions in this Topic

;