01/15/2022
Winter Storm Izzy is forecasted to bring heavy snows, strong winds and ice along the East coast. Even for those beyond the path of this storm, winter weather can be unpredictable. That’s why you need to be prepared with steps to minimize damage to your tent inventory in the field.
Here’s a few things you should consider:
A. Take ‘em down – if at all possible take down and safely store any tents that are currently installed. No matter how strong the foundation, falling limbs, heavy snow, flying debris and even unstable ground conditions can rip vinyl and warp frames.
B. If you have to choose, choose vinyl – If a complete dismantling isn’t possible, take the extra time to remove and safely store all vinyl from your frame tents (pole tents should be taken down completely)
If Options A & B aren’t possible, here’s 3 steps you could take for tents that have to remain in the field:
1. Anchor away – Consider adding more outguys/stakes to any tents that need to remain up as the storm passes through your area.
2. Warm it up – If snow is on the way, portable heat is your best friend. Snow composition, wind, and other factors can affect snow accumulation, so there is no hard and fast rule about how much heat to put in a tent to minimize snow from building on the top. Portable heat will rise and be trapped against the roof panels. It may not eliminate snow buildup but should help slow the rate of accumulation.
3. Break it up – You need to break up and remove any snow buildup as quickly as possible. Use brooms or ropes stretched across the tent with a person on each end to help break up snow that has settled onto the tops.
