Winter Is Coming to the GTA: Your 8-Step “Get-Ready” Checklist

One week you’re enjoying a sunny fall afternoon; the next, you’re scraping frost off your windshield at 7 a.m. That’s life in the Greater Toronto Area. Before the temperature drops, spend a little time getting your home and car winter-ready. Here’s a simple checklist to help you get ahead of the cold.

1. Book Your Winter Tires

Don’t wait for the first snowfall – tire shops get busy fast. Book your winter tire change early and check the tread and tire pressure while you’re at it. Ontario insurers offer winter-tire discounts to qualifying drivers, so check with your insurance company to see what applies to your policy.

2. Check Your Furnace

Your furnace is about to work overtime. Replace a dirty filter and consider scheduling routine maintenance before winter arrives. Also, make sure furniture, rugs, and curtains aren’t blocking your heating vents.

3. Shut Off Outdoor Taps

Disconnect garden hoses and, if your plumbing setup allows it, shut off and drain outdoor water lines. Water left inside vulnerable pipes can freeze, expand, and potentially cause costly damage.

4. Clean Your Gutters

Once most of the leaves have fallen, clear your gutters and downspouts. Good drainage helps prevent water from backing up, freezing, or collecting around your home.

5. Stop Sneaky Drafts

Feel cold air around your windows or doors? Weatherstripping, appropriate caulking, or a simple door sweep can help keep warm air inside – and make your home feel noticeably cozier.

6. Reverse Your Ceiling Fan

If your fan has a winter setting, switch it to run clockwise at low speed. This can help circulate warm air that naturally collects near the ceiling. Check your fan’s instructions if you’re unsure about the correct setting.

7. Test Your Alarms

Test your smoke and carbon monoxide alarms and replace batteries when needed. With heating equipment running and windows closed, these safety devices are especially important during winter.

8. Pack a Car Emergency Kit

Keep a blanket, gloves, snow brush, small shovel, flashlight, phone charger, snacks, and basic first-aid supplies in your vehicle. Check your wipers and winter washer fluid too.

Ready for Winter?

A little preparation now can save you stress when GTA winter arrives. Pick a fall weekend, work through the checklist, and enjoy a warmer, safer winter.

Your January self will thank you.