Whether you’re dusting off the sleds and skates, or you’re stocking up on hot cocoa and readying yourself for your annual cold-weather hibernation, we are all clear on one thing- winter is coming. And, according to the Farmer’s Almanac, it is going to be especially cold and snowy! While we can’t stop the snow or freezing temps from descending on you, we can offer some helpful tips to ensure you, your loved ones, and your property are prepared.

Winter brings with it some unique risks for New Englanders. From preventing hypothermia to practicing safe sledding, skating, and skiing habits- there are many important aspects of winter safety. Luckily, the City of Boston released a list of safety tips for you and your home that are easy for you to follow. Some of these suggestions include:

• Wear many loose-fitting layers of warm clothes, rather than one layer of heavy clothing
• If you are skiing, snowboarding, skating, or playing hockey- wear a helmet
• Check on elderly family members and neighbors to ensure they have enough heat and food
• When shoveling or participating in outdoor activities, be sure to take frequent breaks indoors where it’s warm
• Drink lots of water, as the cold and dry weather dehydrates you faster

While it is important to adhere to these guidelines to keep yourself safe and warm, it is equally as important to ensure your property stays in good shape throughout the winter months. The cold weather can pose quite a threat to your condo, which is why it is essential to be prepared. The City of Boston recommends:

• Have your heating system and water heater serviced at least once a year
• Don’t place electric space heaters near curtains or other flammable objects
• Keep dryer vents clear of snow and ice
• Prevent frozen pipes by keeping faucets open with a slight drip, keeping heat at normal levels, and leaving cabinet doors ajar if pipes behind them can freeze
• If your pipes DO freeze, thaw using a hairdryer or rags soaked in hot water NOT an open flame

Now that we’ve shared some important safety tips, we hope you will be better prepared to enjoy the outdoors this winter, whether you choose to skate at Frog Pond in Boston, hit the slopes at Sugar Bush, or if the only outdoor activity you do in the winter is shoveling your car out of its space in Charlestown.

As for your condo, we hope that your property management company will help you prepare your unit for whatever Mother Nature has in store this winter. If you are not 100% confident that they will take the necessary steps, then this may be a good time to give Peacock Properties a call.

When you partner with Peacock Properties, you are getting much more than a property management partner. Our approach focuses on preventative measures- so whether that is sharing tips on preventative maintenance in the fall or safety tips for you and your family over the winter, Peacock Properties is here for you.