You might have a good map on your smartphone but it won't matter if the phone breaks.

If you're going hiking, download and print (or buy) a topographical map of the area.

Regardless of where you live&nbsp;– in colder climates or more temperate ones&nbsp;– at some point during winter, you'll undoubtedly have to deal with snow and ice. It can be tough to know what to do, especially if your area periodically gets significant snowfalls. To simplify life, here is a list of 9 helpful tips for getting rid of snow and ice.

Tarps are an inexpensive solution to help protect driveways, decks, patios, and even your car against heavy snow. Spreading the tarp across a walkway or driveway before the storm hits helps to provide traction and prevent any freezing rain from accumulating on top.

If you anticipate snow, you might be inventive and <a href="/tips/autos-vehicles/use-towel-easily-remove-ice-from-windshield">cover your car with a sheet</a>. To ensure it stays in place, tuck the corners under the hood and trunk. When it's time to depart, you open the hood and trunk, remove the tarp, shake off any snow or ice, and place it in the trunk. This will should less than a minute, and you'll be ready to go!

2. Use a Good Snow Shovel and Shovel Often

For those who need to shovel snow regularly during the winter, ensuring you have the right tool for the job is essential. Investing in a good-quality snow shovel can make the experience significantly more comfortable and efficient. There are tons of different types of shovels to choose from, but you should really know the four main types:

When it comes to choosing a snow shovel that works well for your use case, you should consider the following factors:

The good thing about a snow shovel is you can also use it year-round. Need to clean up lots of leaves from a brick/concrete patio or driveway? Snow shovel to the rescue! It can scoop better than a rake and will push piles of leaves better than a broom.

Leaf blowers typically move the snow from one place to another. They act like mini-snow blowers and remove the snow easily and quickly for light and fluffy snowfall. The technique works best with up to 3 inches of powdery or freshly fallen snow—anything more than that will clog up your machine.

To blow the snow away, tilt the nozzle of your leaf blower downward and aim it at the path you want to clear—use this gentle push-and-pull method while manipulating what's left behind in the direction you want to go. For continuous snowfall, repeat the process every hour or so.

A bit of an unconventional solution, using PAM cooking spray can help shovel out snow. The oil creates a slippery barrier between the snow and the shovel blade, reducing friction and making it easier to clear an area. Before you begin shoveling, lightly coat your shovel with the spray. Of course, remember to wipe off the cooking spray once finished before storing away your shovel!

5. For Ice Removal Spray Your Windows With Rubbing Alcohol

When temperatures dip, your interior windows can sometimes form a layer of ice crystals, reducing visibility when driving. The simple solution? Spritz some rubbing alcohol onto the frosty window and wipe away with a microfiber cloth or soft cleaning towel. Since most rubbing alcohol is about 70% isopropyl, it will quickly and safely break down the ice, thus defrosting your window in no time. Don't go overboard&nbsp;– too heavy of an application will create unwanted streaks.

You know the old saying to fight fire with fire? What if we told you that you can fight snow with water? Using a garden hose and hot water is an efficient method for clearing snow without the use of a shovel or blower.

Start by connecting your sprayer hose to an indoor hot water spigot – either kitchen or bathroom – and aim it at any enclosed areas surrounding your driveway or walkway before turning on the hot-water supply. Begin by spraying warm water onto the snow, moving over each section at least once for maximum coverage. Once completed, if the area needs additional traction for safety, sprinkle salt for added protection against freezing. The salt will weaken the ice, making it easier to remove with a snow shovel or scraper.

7.&nbsp;Sprinkle Salt before It Snows

As cold weather approaches, it's important to remember that you don't need to wait for snowfall to tackle icy patches on your property. Sprinkling salt on any ice-prone areas of your yard, such as steps, sidewalks, and driveways, can help prevent hazardous falls from occurring before the snow even hits the ground.

Salt melts down a layer of snow and helps keep a thin layer of ice from forming when temperatures drop. This is an easy and effective way to ensure no one slips while they walk through your yard or the driveway this winter. Plus, it makes cleaning up easier should you need to shovel light snow. So if you want to stay safe during winter storms and cold snaps, sprinkle salt on those dangerous icy surfaces before it snows.

8. Use Cat Litter to Provide Traction on Icy Surfaces

If you ever find yourself stuck in your driveway or on the side of the road after an icy snowfall, look no further than your nearby cat litter (yes, really). Sprinkling kitty litter on the ground before and in front of your wheels will provide some grip for the wheels to gain enough traction to get you out of a bind, and hopefully save you from a long wait for a tow truck.

Once the cat litter gets you moving again, traditional methods like salt should melt the ice and eliminate what has been causing slick spots in your driveway or parking lot.

During the winter months, rooftops must be regularly cleared of snow. To successfully remove snow from your roof, hire professional snow removal services or use high-powered shovels and other tools specifically designed for this task. During the snowstorm, the inches of snow accumulation can quickly become overwhelming and can put a lot of extra stress on the structure of your roof and multiple layers of shingles.

9 Expert Tips for Removing Snow and Ice

Fishing, much like <a href="/tips/outdoors/camping-pro-tips-for-first-time-campers">camping</a>, is an activity where learning the basics is easy but mastering it can be quite challenging. The key to success is learning from other fishermen who have gone before you.

From choosing the right fishing tackle to knowing where to fish and what type of fish to catch, there are plenty of things to consider before heading out onto the water. With these nine fishing pro tips, you can hopefully establish and improve your fishing skills to set you on the path to becoming a great angler.

A fishing rod is a pole with a line attached to the end of it. There are different kinds of fishing rods varying in length, diameter, weight, flexibility, and strength. The most common materials used for rods are graphite, fiberglass, bamboo, and wood.

A spinning reel is attached to a rod and used to store your line. Similar to fishing rods, spinning reels also come in many different shapes and sizes. Smaller models are better suited for younger kids and novice anglers since they're easy to handle, while larger reels are better for experienced anglers, who cast longer distances and fight larger fish.

You'll want to purchase a spinning reel and rod combo as it will give you everything you need to start fishing without having to buy individual items. Since you'll most likely be spending the majority of your time fishing in shallow freshwater (where casting distance isn't much of an issue), consider purchasing a shorter rod. That way, it's easier to transport and stow in your car's trunk.

The best tip for choosing a fishing rod and reel is to not break the bank. Get yourself a fishing rod that meets your needs&nbsp;and fits your budget. You can always upgrade later on.

You can't expect to catch a fish without a lure and bait. When deciding which lure to use, you should determine what kind of fish you'd like to catch. Some lures work best for specific species such as bass, walleye, or trout, whereas others target a wider variety of fish like perch, carp, or catfish.

For those just starting out, it's better to stick with one of the following lures due to their simplicity, effectiveness, and reliability:

If you want to attract larger fish, you'll need heavier tackle. Larger lures such as minnows, worms, and crickets are effective baits for largemouth bass. Many fishermen enjoy casting soft plastics over hard plastic jigs, as soft plastics are more flexible and you can fish them deeper and closer to the top of the water's surface.

You can't hook a fish without a line! There are three main types of fishing lines:

Getting good at casting is a skill that every angler must perfect to get their lure as close as possible to the fish. If you're just starting out fishing, a spinning reel is a good choice as it's easy to use. Casting only requires winding up the reel and throwing the lure. Here's how:

A "fish finder" is a simple device you can attach to your line that uses radar to help discover fish. Based on its range, it will show you exactly where those fish are. If there's a high concentration of fish in your proximity, you have a better chance of getting a bite. You can get a decent and affordable fish finder like the <a href="https://amzn.to/3XdTN59">Garmin Striker 4 with GPS</a>&nbsp;for $120, whereas a high-end fish finder like the <a href="https://amzn.to/3DfKauP">Humminbird HELIX 5</a> will run around $300.

The most important thing you can do when fishing is gently and slowly reel in the fish. If done properly, you will catch the fish without pulling too hard or jerking the rod. This will allow you to set the hook firmly and smoothly, ensuring you don't lose the fish.

If you're planning to catch and release your fish, keep in mind the following tips:

If the fish isn't moving, try shaking it lightly. If it doesn't move even after shaking, it's likely dead. After checking whether the fish is alive or dead, carefully place it into the water. Don't drop it directly into the water, though. Instead, hold the fish by the tail and slowly lower it into the water. Once it reaches the bottom, let go of the fish.

8. Decide Which Type of Fish You'd Like to Catch

There are several fish species that are easier to catch than others. The largemouth bass is the most commonly caught fish, followed closely by bluegill. Both of those species are aggressive and bite right away. You'll have to be quick if you want to land either one.

Flounder is another excellent saltwater option. These fish are small, plentiful and tend to stay close to the shore and near piers.

Similarly, freshwater trout is a good beginner's fish as they too are fairly easy to catch and abundant near piers. Not to mention they taste fantastic and have a good amount of meat to them.

While you can read and apply the tips listed here, every angler will make mistakes when it comes to fishing. One common mistake is not checking the weather forecast prior to heading out to deep water. No one wants a surprise storm to ruin their fishing trip, but more importantly, rough waters can be dangerous for even experienced fishermen. Even if the forecast looks good, it's always wise to check for any last-minute updates or changes in wind speed and direction before setting off <a href="/tips/outdoors">outdoors</a>.

So before you cast your line, make sure you've checked the weather report for a safe and successful day of fishing. After all, there's nothing worse than a soggy sandwich and a capsized boat!

Fishing Pro Tips For Beginners: 9 Tips to Becoming a Better at Fishing!

It can be overwhelming for first-time campers to figure out what they need to bring and do to survive in the wilderness for a night or two. Choosing what gear you need, pitching a tent, and even making a fire can be quite daunting!

But don't worry; we've got you covered. Below are some tips for choosing the right campsite, packing a perfect camp kitchen, and more that will hopefully set you up for success on your first camping trip.

One of the most important aspects of having a great camping trip is picking the perfect campsite. Here are a few things to keep in mind when you're choosing a campsite:

Now that you know how to pick the perfect campsite, let's move on to what camping gear you need.

A tent is an essential part of your gear as it provides shelter from the elements. A three-season tent is ideal if you are just starting out camping. They come in many sizes and styles. You can choose a tent that fits your budget, size, and sleeping needs. If you plan to camp with friends or family, consider buying a larger tent to accommodate everyone comfortably.

If you're a beginner, practice putting your tent up and down a few times. Do a practice night in the backyard to see if you've missed anything.

Make sure the tent you buy has a vestibule and is set up correctly so that you don't wake up soaking wet.

Once inside, there are two things you need to consider - light and ventilation. If your tent doesn't have a way to hang a small torch from the roof, then rig one up, or get a lantern or something similar to provide light.

Ventilation is the key to keeping the inside of your tent dry; keep the flaps open as much as possible. Don't bring wet clothes or boots into the main tent if you can avoid it.

A warm sleeping bag is key for a comfortable night's sleep. Be sure to choose a sleeping bag appropriate for the season and temperature range in which you'll be camping.

It's always colder than you think, especially when camping in autumn or spring. Bring a cot, air mattress, or a sleeping pad to elevate you from the floor and isolate your body warmth from the cold ground. Ideally, you will have chosen a flat surface to place your tent on.

If it's especially cold where you're camping and you want your clothes to be warm for the next morning, don't place them inside of your sleeping bag! Instead,&nbsp;place them between your mattress and sleeping bag. That way your body doesn't get them wet while you sweat in your sleep during the night.

Nothing quite says "camping," like sitting around a campfire at night telling stories and roasting marshmallows. But the biggest mistake most campers (even the experienced ones) make is not gathering enough wood.

The best camping life pro tip is this - once you think you have gathered enough firewood, gather five times more. It's&nbsp;NEVER&nbsp;enough wood - especially if you're planning on having a fire all night to keep you warm. By the time the food is cooking, the pile will already be running low, and it will be pitch black out!

Do you want to draw the short stick to go get more firewood? We've all seen what happens in The Blair Witch Project...

For helping start your fire, pack a pencil sharpener. You can use it to make kindling out of any little sticks! Or, save your dryer lint and bring it along. It's highly flammable, and the results are even better if you mix it with vaseline.

If you forget the pencil sharpener or dryer lint, carry a small handheld fan or a long tube. They let you blow air to start the fire without burning off your eyebrows.

From a fire safety aspect, DO NOT camp in dry woods or forests. A single spark can cause a big fire in a few minutes. Always have a large bottle of water on hand in case of an emergency, even if you're camping at a location that provides its own water supply.

Speaking of emergencies - do not leave home without a first aid kit. And I'm not talking about a basic one.

It's imperative to carry a quality first aid kit. It should have a tourniquet, suture stapler, clotting powder, emergency blanket, splint, and a fair supply of gauze and tape.

Doesn't matter if you're going only for the weekend -- 127 Hours showed us how quickly things can go awry when you're by yourself in the wilderness.

Ultimately, it's always better to be safe than sorry.

Let's talk clothing. First and foremost, leave your Levi's at home. Denim is the worst camping clothing in the history of camping. If it gets wet, it gets heavier and takes forever to dry.

Instead, choose function over fashion. This is the great outdoors after all; opt for durable clothes that can withstand outdoor elements like dirt, rain, and potentially sharp rocks or branches.

Put on some well-worn boots instead of brand-spanking-new ones. If you don't have hiking boots, wear old sneakers. If possible, pack slip-on shoes or sandals for around your camp. Tying your shoes is a major inconvenience when you need to use the restroom at 2AM.

Nothing ruins a camping trip faster than being cold and wet, so bring extra socks and underwear. They're going to get dirty and soaked in sweat or water, and you don't want the discomfort and risk of blisters that come from wet socks or no socks. You can carry them inside a garbage bag so they remain dry, and you can use the bag to clean up after your stay.

I recommend you leave a complete set of clean clothes in the car. That way, you'll have something clean to wear on the way home.

You will likely have forgotten something important, so save your camping pack list. When you come home, add what you forgot, remove what you brought but didn't need, and save the list for next time.

Make sure you arrive at your location early in the day so you can drive to a local shopping center to buy anything that you have forgotten.

Lastly, please clean up after yourself. The wilderness often gets cluttered with plastic rubbish that just looks bad and is also bad for the environment. It takes thousands of years to disintegrate, and often animals either eat the trash left behind or suffocate inside it.

Camping Pro Tips For First-Time Campers

The good news is that if you didn't already bring an extra pair of socks specifically for this purpose, you can use the ones you are hopefully&nbsp;wearing.

There had been some doubt cast upon this tip throughout the internet, but thankfully, Discovery Channel's Jay Ingram put it to the test with alpaca wool socks&nbsp;at 3, 5, and 10 degree inclines.

Prevent yourself from slipping in the snow by putting your socks over your shoes.

Don't forget to put them in a water-poof container!

Keep matches dry by dipping the tips in wax and scraping it off as you need them.

You can pack them into tupperware or ziplock bags. This will help cut down on prep time, and allows you to forego packing unnecessary prep materials. Make sure you also label your bags.

When camping, measure and package all ingredients for each meal in advance.

Additionally, wearing long sleeves, and long pants as well as tucking your shirts into your pants and pant legs into your socks will ensure you create a barrier to entry.

When hiking in an area with a high tick prevalence, wear light colored clothing.

Packed in a waterproof container, dryer lint is great tinder for fire starting.

Bring dryer lint to use as a fire-starter.

Need to start a fire and worried about the wind or rain being a factor? Bring some of those "magical" trick birthday candles and you should have no problem getting the fire started. Wet your fingers to extinguish the candle and save it.

Use trick candles to help start a campfire.

Healthier than using baby powder (due to carcinogens) and dries instantly.

Bring cornstarch to the beach to get wet sand off your feet.

You don't need to be Rambo, but understand how to handle, maintain, and use a gun. Gaining a clear understanding of laws related to firearms in your area will also be a good thing to learn.

If you're going hiking, download and print (or buy) a topographical map of the area.

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9 Expert Tips for Removing Snow and Ice

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