Are You Ready?

Are You Ready?

For the last week we have been preparing. We are preparing for a new season in the year as well as a new season in our lives. Are you ready for a new season? Let's talk about the new season for this year. There are several things that we as drivers need to do to prepare for the colder season. Many of these things can also be applied to auto drivers as well.

Already, some states have begun their chain laws. Have you added tire chains to what you carry on your truck? What other items do you carry? While we are required by law to carry chains our rule of thumb is that if we have to "chain up", we look for a safe place to park. We would rather not drive on snow-packed or ice-covered roads.

We also make sure to carry warmer clothes so that we can layer up if our truck is off and heat is not available. We carry plenty of food and water. Those in autos can carry these things too. Include a blanket for extra warmth as well.

Next, we need to make sure our semi and our personal vehicles are prepared for winter. We make sure the tires are not showing any signs of wear. We did replace the tires on our personal vehicle. We also make sure that the semi batteries are strong. This year we had all six batteries replaced. We check all belts and hoses to make sure there are no cracks or wear marks and that there are no leaks due to loose connections. Finally, we check all of our fluid levels and stock up on windshield wiper solution.

Finally, this week we are getting ready for a move of sorts. We are going to take our camper to a warmer climate. This is the first time that we have tried spending the colder months somewhere warmer. We have no idea what to expect. We are excited for the opportunity. We are using this opportunity to determine if our retirement years could be divided between the North and the South. In this way, we are getting ready for a new season in our lives. Having more than one "home" is not an easy proposition. We are realizing that we need two of everything. We are learning that there are different styles of clothes in each part of the country. We would have never known that had we not decided to become "snowbirds."

Again, I ask: Are you ready? Are you ready for the coming winter season? Is your equipment ready? Are your personal possessions ready? Are you ready for the next season in your life? If the answer is yes, then great! If the answer is no, then what are you waiting for? Get ready!

Here's to millions of safe, profitable and READY miles.

Kelly Plumb