Winter Safety Hacks From TD Staff

It’s that time of year again! As anyone who’s lived in Tahoe a while will tell you: Sierra Nevada winters can be wildly unpredictable. From powerful storms that can dump feet of snow overnight or traffic that can bring your day to a literal halt, each time you step out of the house can feel like an intrepid outdoor adventure. But that doesn’t mean you can’t master the art of high-alpine living. Below are a few useful tips and tricks from the Tahoe Donner staff to help you weather the winter more like the locals and less like the Donner Party.

SAFE DRIVING + CAR TIPS

“On steep roads, decelerate and downshift your vehicle to lower gears as you approach, instead of using your brakes. You’re less likely to spin out.”
Leslie Loveland
TAHOE DONNER TRAILS PROGRAM MANAGER

“Carry a shovel, brush and scraper in your car, in addition to a set of chains. Plan extra time to clear snow and ice from your vehicle, including the windows, sideview mirrors and especially the roof. Snow on the roof of the car can slide forward onto the windshield, blocking your vision. Be kind and patient with other road users.”
Sally Jones
DIRECTOR OF TAHOE DONNER CROSS COUNTRY SKI CENTER

“If you have a two-wheel-drive vehicle, you will definitely need chains – or at least studded tires – to make it up Northwoods. Pack gloves and knee pads, especially if it’s your first time putting chains on (it takes practice). Also, avoid taking shortcuts, as they are not plowed (main roads have priority) and can be blocked by other vehicles.”
Heiko Mueller
RECREATION MANAGER

“Carry cash if you carry chains. The chainers only accept cash during chain control.”
Tonito Posada
GUEST SERVICES LEAD, DOWNHILL SKI RESORT

“Do not tailgate the driver ahead of you. It is both dangerous and impolite.”
Cynthia Cendreda
COMMUNICATIONS AND CONTENT MARKETING LEAD

“Start your car a few minutes before you leave to let it warm up and defrost the windshield.”
Morgan Boas
GUEST SERVICES AGENT, DOWNHILL SKI RESORT

“Keep an emergency bag packed in the car that includes a flare, shovel, traction pads, jumper cables, blankets, gloves, snacks and water.”
Cari Healey
SKI + SNOWBOARD SCHOOL MANAGER, DOWNHILL SKI RESORT

STORM PREP

“Before a big storm, charge your cell phones, power banks and other devices, stock up on groceries and fuel for vehicles, snowblowers and generators.”
Jason Hajduk-Dorworth
DIRECTOR OF ADMINISTRATIVE SERVICES

“Keep a supply of batteries, flashlights and blankets ready in the event of a power outage.”
Cari Healey
SKI + SNOWBOARD SCHOOL MANAGER, DOWNHILL SKI RESORT

“If the power goes out for an extended period and you find yourself without a generator, grab a cooler and throw some ice and snow in for a makeshift refrigerator for your perishables. You can also leave it outside or in the garage to keep it extra cool, but make sure it’s secured from bears and other hungry critters!”
Felicia Bateman
HUMAN RESOURCES SUPERVISOR

GENERAL SAFETY

“Make sure family members don’t play under roofs with snow creep or metal roofs. They can shed at any time, causing injury or even burying you.”
Andrea Brideau-Miller
SKI SCHOOL DIRECTOR, TAHOE DONNER CROSS COUNTRY SKI CENTER

“Schedule your chimney cleaning and furnace check-ups before December.”
Morgan Boas
GUEST SERVICES AGENT, DOWNHILL SKI RESORT

“If you are out on the streets after dark, wear reflective clothing and put a light on your dog so you are all visible to drivers.”
Sally Jones
DIRECTOR OF TAHOE DONNER CROSS COUNTRY SKI CENTER