The May long weekend marks the beginning of cottage season for many. Here are some tips to help you get your cottage ready for a fun filled summer!

 PLAN AHEAD

Nothing is worse than spending two hours in cottage bound traffic only to realize that half of what you need is at home!

• Put a tool kit together. After sitting empty all winter chances are your cottage will require a little maintenance the first weekend
• Where are the keys to the boat? Hopefully at home in the kitchen drawer is not the answer. Collect all of your cottage related keys and put them in a spot you will have to walk by on your way out the door.
• Purchase batteries and filters ahead of time to avoid having to run out to the hardware store
• Consider having the septic tank or outhouse cleaned
• Make sure your cottage and boat insurance policies are up to date.

ONCE YOU ARRIVE

You have made it! But the cottage has been closed up for months there is no telling what winter weather and critters trying to escape from it have done to the place while you were gone. There are a few things to do before you can sit back and relax.

• Check your electricity meter and interior wiring for any signs of damage or gnaw marks before you turn the power on for the season
• Remove dry leaves and debris from the cottage roof to reduce fire risk
• Install and maintain smoke and carbon monoxide detectors
• Turn on the taps! Start with the cold water first. Prime the pump and remove all air from the system before filling your hot water tank

Last step…but the most important…HAVE A GREAT SUMMER!