Rental Winter Preparedness
Winter weather is around the corner, and although most winters in Pittsburgh tend to be fairly mild, it is still important to be prepared in case conditions take a turn for the worse. Don't be that person who is running around the supermarket at the last minute trying to gather supplies moments before a storm hits. Check out a few of our suggestions for necessary items to stock up on NOW.
Shovel and Salt - RPI tenants are responsible for snow removal at their rental properties unless specified otherwise. This includes removal of snow from steps, sidewalks, driveways, etc. and the removal and salting of ice.
Backup Batteries, Flashlights, and Candles - Don't count on the flashlight on your iPhone to last for days if there is a serious power outage. Stock up on batteries, flashlights, and unscented candles or locate the ones living at the bottom of a junk drawer before its dark!
Stock Up On Water - The rule of thumb is that you should have one gallon of water per person per day for at least 3 days. Have pets? Don't forget to account for them too.
Canned Food & Non-electric Can Opener - You should have at least a three-day supply of non-perishable food that you will actually eat - so don't count on those old cans of beans that have been in your cupboard for ages. You could also stock-up on dry cereal, bread, peanut butter, dried fruits, coffee, crackers, and most importantly - comfort foods.
Pet Food - Have a pet? Get food for them too! Check the shelf life and storage suggestion for your pet's food of choice and be prepared to rotate it out as need be so that you always have a fresh supply.
Medications - Take a prescription medication? Have enough on hand in case you aren't able to get to a pharmacy during a blizzard. Also be sure to have pain or cold medication and a first-aid kid on hand for emergencies.
Entertainment - Cards, books, board games, DVDs and a charged laptop, arts & crafts, simple exercises, puzzles, etc. are all great ways to help you wait-out the return of the WiFi. Cabin fever is no fun and can leave you feeling irritable, unmotivated, and lethargic. So plan out some activities or stock up on hobby materials to keep you busy during a long-stretch of having to be inside.
