The leaves are sadly turning in some spots on the lake or even completely gone from the strong winds we've had. This signals that it is yet again the time of year we all likely have been dreading. Closing time. For some closing time happens on September long weekend or some cottagers don't close until Thanksgiving weekend. Eitherway we have all the tips for you.
Are you ready for fall? Closing season is coming up and for some you might already have closed the cabin up.
Here is a closing check list
1. Drain and wrap your pipes. You want to be sure you guard against pipes freezing and bursting over the winter season.
2. Leak-proof your hot water heater.
3. Defrost your refrigerator/freezer. Unplug it and leave the doors slightly ajar to prevent mold and mildew.
4. Take out any food, chips, snacks etc that could attract mice or insects etc. In the Spring there usually is many ants that you don't want to attract.
5. Prepare your septic/sump system for winter.
6. Wildlife-proof your roof, vents, main cottage, and storage shed areas. Rodents and insects will be eager to enter your cabin to shelter when temperatures drop.
7. Take in and secure all equipment, furniture, docks, vehicles, and gear. Be SURE you factor in the possibility of rising water in deciding where to store these valuable items.
8. Secure any items to be left outside during winter. If there are items that are too cumbersome or large to be moved easily or for which you simply have no storage space indoors, be sure to secure them in some way—chains and a heavy-duty lock often work well.
9. Make a decision about your main power supply. Some cottage owners leave it on to power security systems or safety lighting. This is a very individual decision— If you do unplug completely, make sure to unplug each appliance individually as well.
Ways to stay green at the cabin:
Whether we like to admit it or not, living the lake life can come with some environmental and ecological costs. Though most individuals who love lake life are lovers of nature and the environment. There are some ways we can help to reduce some environmental impacts made by lake life.
1) Carpooling: Many people commute all the way from Manitoba or Fort Frances etc to visit the area, if you can you should try to carpool out more often. This doesn't end with the car ride as you may also have a boat trip after that and that is another place you could 'carpool'. Be sure to drive the speed limits and try to keep your wake low in no wake zones for the sake of the breeding animals and shorelines.
2) Use eco friendly cleaning products and do not use any soap in the lake. Even if it says it is biodegradable it does not belong in the lake and will take much longer to break down if at all. The only thing safe to put in the water is water.
See the Summer issue of the Area News magazine on page 48 for an article with tips on how to be eco-friendly at the lake as well as stay tuned for the fall issue with a full depth winter closing check list!