The sound of the plow scraping its way down the road wakes you on a wintry morning. You prepare to dig out from last night’s snow, thankful for the snow blower in the garage. But while a snow blower or snow thrower can make quick work of clearing your driveway and sidewalk, it is not without its share of danger if used improperly. Here are some important snow blower safety considerations for the next storm.

Are you one of the millions of boaters with spring fever, itching to get your vessel out of winter storage and back onto the water? If so, be sure to take the time to properly de-winterize and prepare your boat before taking it out for its first voyage of the season.

Having a spring ritual that includes recommended inspection, tune-up and cleaning of your boat before setting out on your first trip can help prevent a host of problems that could keep you off the water later in the season — not to mention, help keep you and everyone aboard safe during your adventures.

Following are some tips to help get your boat as ready as you are to hit the water this year.