
Eagles Landing Ranch L.O.A.
Stonewall, Colorado

Panoramic View from Eagles Landing. - photography by Melody October May
Getting Ready for the Winter
With the coming of the winter months, it's time for us to get ready for handling the weather that could be. Remember that winter storms can:
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Last a few hours or several days,
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Cut off heat, power and communication services, and
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Put older adults, children and sick individuals at greater risk.
Here are some ways to prepare for the winter weather here in the mountains:
DURING A WINTER STORM
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Limit your time outside. If you need to go outside, then wear layers of warm clothing. Watch for signs of frostbite and hypothermia.
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Only use generators and grills outdoors and away from windows.
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Avoid overexertion while shoveling snow and walking in the snow.
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Watch for signs of frostbite and hypothermia and begin treatment right away.
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When faced with an extended power outage, living and sleeping in a single room will help conserve heat. Select a room away from the prevailing winds. If you have a room in your house that normally stays warmer than the rest of the house, that's probably a good choice.
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If it is safe to do so, check on neighbors.
OTHER WINTER HINTS
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Remember to dress in layers. It's usual to see temperature variances of 50-60 degrees in a single day.
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When driving at Eagles Landing with snow on the ground, remember to drive slowly and use your 4x4. If your car isn't equipped with that, park down at the bottom of the ranch and have someone pick you up.
TIPS FOR DRIVING IN THE SNOW
(copied from CODOT.gov)
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Take a little extra time to clear your car of snow and ice before leaving for your destination.
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There are three actions you do most when you drive: accelerate, turn and brake. In winter weather, you should only do one of those actions at a time. Attempting more than one of these actions at once can cause slide-outs, spin-outs and other harmful scenarios.
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When traveling downhill, if possible, switch to a lower gear, and gently tap your brakes. This helps to avoid burning your brakes, and in winter weather, it helps keep traction.
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Keep momentum when traveling uphill to avoid getting stuck.
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When driving at night, keep your headlight beams low. High beams can amplify the appearance of snow and lead to decreased visibility.
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Slow down – driving too fast for conditions causes most crashes.
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If you encounter a multi-car collision, stay in your car. You’re safer in your car than outside of it.
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Signage is your best friend – look ahead and plan ahead for abrupt turns or stops.
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Always wear your seat belt.
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Never drive impaired.
WINTER CHECKLIST FOR YOUR HOME
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Make sure that if you have a backup (non-electric) heat source, that it is ready to go. Remember - before using any type of wood-burning or gas-powered heating unit, make sure that you have tested your smoke detector and carbon monoxide detectors. Be sure to follow all instructions and manufacturer recommendations of that device.
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Prepare your home to keep out the cold with insulation, caulking and weather stripping. Learn how to keep pipes from freezing.
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Gather supplies in case you need to stay home for several days without power Keep in mind each person's specific needs, including medication. Remember the needs of your pets.
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Have extra batteries for radios and flashlights.
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When faced with an extended power outage, living and sleeping in a single room will help conserve heat. Select a room away from the prevailing winds. If you have a room in your house that normally stays warmer than the rest of the house, that's probably a good choice.
WINTER CHECKLIST FOR YOUR AUTO
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Create an emergency supply kit for your car, including:
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first aid kit
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ice scraper, snow shovel and sand (or cat litter)
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jumper cables
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flashlight / flares
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warm clothes / blankets
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bottled water & non-perishable snacks
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cards, book or a game you can play (if you get stuck, you get really bored)
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Make sure all of of the following car items are in safe operating condition:
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Windshield wiper fluid
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Heater & Defroster
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Wiper Blades
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Radiator / Antifreeze
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Lights
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Fuel System
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Ignition
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Exhaust System
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Tire Tread (at least 3/16")
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Battery
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Brakes
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Keep a full tank of gas

Includes Tips for Vehicle Safety, Travel Resources, Operations, and I-70 Mountain Travel Laws