5 Ways to Survive Michigan’s Winter

When Michigan’s winter season starts, there’s a flurry of excitement. Who doesn’t love skiing at Mt. Brighton, hiking along the beautiful frozen lakes, and cozying up with a warm cup of hot chocolate? But as it drags on, the temperatures drop and the snow and ice keep coming. In order to survive the rest of Michigan’s winter season, follow these tips:

There is no shame in a head-to-toe snowsuit.

It’s cold. Really cold. So, if you have to bundle up to the point where you can’t put your arms down, don’t be embarrassed. You’re guaranteed to be much warmer, safer, and more comfortable than everyone else out and about this winter.

If you haven’t already, sign up for Netflix, Hulu, or another online video and TV subscription service. 

Since you won’t be spending your time playing outside, now might be the time to find a video subscription service that fits your needs and sign up. The long, cold weekends of winter have really just begun, so you could have a lot of fun popcorn-and-a-movie nights ahead of you. Or, if binge watching a series is more your thing, this is the perfect season to commit to that show you’ve been dying to see.

Insulate your windows.

It’s true that winter’s cold can be unpleasant, but the rising gas and electric bills that come with keeping your heat on aren’t any fun, either. To cut back on costs while keeping your home warm, you can insulate your windows. It’s temporary, so the plastic insulator sheets can come down when the weather gets warmer, and it helps to trap the heat inside your home while also preventing the cold from coming in through any cracks.

Stock up on food staples.

You never know when the power is going to go out, or when you’re going to get snowed in. During Michigan’s harsh winter months, it’s not a bad plan to have a few food staples on hand in case of an emergency. Pick your favorites – vegetables, soups, and beans are all good options. A mix of canned and frozen foods is a good idea, as well. Plus, even if you don’t use it during an emergency, a frozen pizza on a night that the roads are dicey is probably a better idea than running out to the store to pick something up.

Take care of Bowser.

Even when your pup wants to go play in the freshly fallen snow, the bitter cold temps can be dangerous for them, too. Not letting them outside for longer than a quick bathroom break, or making sure they’re bundled up in a sweater of their own can cut down on temperature related risks. But there are other problems that winter poses for Fido – the chemicals in de-icing salt can be harmful to their paws. Luckily, most stores sell a “pet friendly” de-icer compound like this one from Road Runner.

Michigan’s winters are tough, but we know that you’re tougher. What are your Michigan winter survival tips? Let us know in the comments!

Image Credit:

http://www.huffingtonpost.com/2012/11/28/a-christmas-story-flagpole-scene_n_2204235.html

https://www.amazon.com/3M-Indoor-Window-Insulator-Windows/dp/B00002NCJI

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Fd5fvKHzrCIhttps://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Fd5fvKHzrCI

http://www.bonejourpetsupply.com/blogs/bonejour/11577477-winter-paw-protection-the-best-dog-boots