7 Tips To Survive A Michigan Winter

Winters in Michigan can be brutal. If it's not snowing like crazy, we have bitter cold temperatures. Once in a while we get both, the bitter cold and the blowing snow, and that's a double whammy. Blizzards are no fun.

Winter weather in Michigan can get out of our control. If you've lived here for most of your life then you know that it is going to do what it wants. One thing we can do is survive the brutality of Michigan winters. We can survive and make it fun.

We have a choice to embrace Michigan winters or not. As I get older I am embracing winter indoors nowadays rather than outside. Don't get me wrong, I like to go sledding and have fun with my kids, I also like snow removal. Staying warm is preferred.

We are in this together Michiganders, the DFP and I have some tips for surviving the winter.

7 Great Ways To Survive A Michigan Winter

7. Be Grateful

It could always be worse somewhere else. Siberia, no thanks.

6. Stock the Pantry

If we are going to have a snow storm, it's not going to last for 300 days. It won't last 10 days. Be realistic when you go shopping before the next snowmageddon! Have fun in the kitchen with your kids and teach them some life skills.

5. Have Some Indoor Fun

When was the last time you played Yahtzee or the original Monopoly game? I also think it's important to spend time with your kids doing what THEY want to do. It might not be that entertaining for us as parents but it means everything to our kids.

4. Have Your Car Ready To Go For Winter

Nothing will ruin your day faster than your car breaking down in the dead of winter. It's frustrating when the battery dies. If you aren't familiar with your vehicle, contact a local mechanic to assist you with your car.

The very last thing you want to do is sit on the side of the road twiddling your thumbs. Have a good battery? Good. Tires with tread left? Great. Full tank of gas? Good again. Now, think about what you put in the car. “We usually just start with basics like gloves and a hat,” said Rob Dale of Ingham County’s emergency management office. A warm coat, if you’re not already wearing one, and boots are a must. If you’re traveling in rural areas where you’re more likely to get stuck, you might want to put a bag of kitty litter or play sand in the trunk to help provide traction if needed. If you’re traveling a longer distance, bring a couple of bottles of water and some snacks.

3. Stay In, Why Go Out?

I have a hard time sitting still and staying in. In the winter it's easier for me to do since it's so damn cold out. Catch up on a book, a project or take a nap. If you have to go to work, most of us do, then come back home and chill indoors.

2. Own A Snow Shovel or Snow Blower

Watching the snow pile up is frustrating. Stay on top of it with a good snow shovel or snow blower. Check on your elderly neighbors too. They shouldn't be removing snow, if you can help them, please do. Be ready for when the snow plows plow you in.

1. Dress Like You've Been Through A Michigan Winter Before

It's important to dress accordingly for Michigan winters. Leave the flip flops at home and stay warm. DFP:

Dress in layers. Save cotton for warmer months. Michigan State University Extension recommends wearing wool or synthetic materials that wick moisture away from your skin. Long underwear, a sweater or fleece garment and outer layers that will repel snow are important. Comfortable, insulated boots and wool or synthetic socks will help.

Thermals are a huge part of my winter wardrobe. If you dress warm, you can go have fun sledding, tossing snowballs or pushing your friends out of snow ditches.