One of the great things about Long Island New York is the joy of experiencing all four seasons; we have hot summers, cold winters, foliage in the fall and flowers in the spring. Those Long Island winters can be brutal though. Many places with high levels of snowfall and seasonally frigid temperatures are somewhat built around the cold climate. Long Island is a little different, and even though the winter is nothing new to us, the transition from the beach days at Robert Moses to the icy commute down the LIE can be difficult. Here are 5 tips for surviving the winter on Long Island.
Expect the inevitable snowfall: Be prepared to shovel your driveway and possibly to be snowed in the event a storm hits. Make sure you have at least a snow shovel if not some rock salt and a snow blower. Keep non-perishable food and water stocked somewhere in your home. If you have an old boiler or your heating system is out of date it may be good to have an alternate heating source if your boiler fails. If possible a gas powered generator and a few electric heaters can make a big difference if the heat stops working.
Maintain your vehicle: Regardless of weather you should take care of your truck or car. Make sure the oil is changed regularly, make sure your fluids are topped off and your tires have enough air in them and enough tread on them. Even if we don’t get 2or 3 feet of snow a dusting or freezing rain can be just as dangerous if you’re driving around on a bald set of tires.
Have a plan for your family if there is a state of emergency: Coordinate with your neighbors and the surrounding community in the event of a real severe blizzard or storm. If the power is out for an extended period of time and cell phone towers are down the lines of communication and means of transporting can become very limited. Keep emergency supplies in the house, things like candles, flashlights, batteries, a first aid kit and a radio. Know what shelters and assistance your community offers in the event of a disaster.
Limit your travel: Don’t venture out into the snow-clogged streets unless it is absolutely unavoidable. Even if you drive a big SUV or truck its not just your own driving that you should be concerned about but the driving of the other motorists as well. Also keep in mind that although the main roads may be clear and the plows got to your neighborhood it does not mean that the roads are clear everywhere. Be cautious in your travel and stick to the highways and parkways as much as possible.
Watch the news or the emergency services channel: If the power stays on keep an eye on the news for important updates about weather conditions and emergency services. If the power goes out it is good to have a battery-operated radio just in case. Knowing what is happening in the immediate and surrounding area is important in case you run out of supplies or need to seek shelter.
Sometimes we forget how unforgiving the winter months can be. It is important to be prepared and to exercise caution. Have the tools and supplies necessary to clear your property and to care for you and your family if travel becomes dangerous or there is a power outage. Take care of your vehicle because if driving is unavoidable you want to limit the danger as much as possible.
All Star Limousine is a Long Island, New York based company with an extensive global reach; we provide expert Wedding, Special Event and Executive Travel services throughout the Tri-State area and the world. We have over 30 years of experience in the travel industry; our attention to detail, 2015 top-of-the-line vehicles and professional trained Chauffeurs set us apart from the rest!