"Did I Turn The Water Off?" Here's What Lake Homeowners Should Check Before The Winter Storm Hits

With expected ice and snowfall this weekend at Lake of the Ozarks, homeowners should double-check a few things before the winter storm hits.

The National Weather Service has issued a Winter Storm Warning for Camden, Miller, and Morgan counties starting Saturday evening through 6 a.m. Monday, Jan. 6. Expect heavy mixed precipitation, including 2-5 inches of snow, sleet, and up to half an inch of ice, making roads dangerously slick, especially bridges and overpasses.

Travel is strongly discouraged. If you must travel, pack a winter storm kit with essentials like water, blankets, and tire chains.

These types of storms can cause costly damages, but there's some preventative steps that could save full-timers and second homeowners some trouble.

1. Turn Off Water

Exposed water lines and outdoor spigots are prone to freezing and bursting. Turn off your home's water if you’ll be away for an extended period, or consider installing a leak-detection system like WaterLock.

The longer the water runs, the more damage it does. Local restoration/remediation companies like A-Z Home Services see similar stories every year: a Lake of the Ozarks second-homeowner returns to the Lake house to find a flooded disaster zone.

2. Dock Deicer

Ice and snow can wreak havoc on docks. Use a deicer to prevent ice buildup, and remove heavy snow from roofs to avoid structural collapse. Dock owners should avoid getting on the roof of a slick, ice/snow-laden dock: an accidental plunge into frigid waters can be fatal.

Wind can also loosen cables, so ensure they’re secured. Just make sure to loosen them again ahead of the winter drawdown.

3. Boat Lift

Cold weather can drop air pressure in lift tanks, potentially leaving your boat adrift or submerged. Regular inspections and lift controls can prevent disaster.

Can't make it to the Lake? Have a neighbor check on it for you or hire a crew like Lake Guard LLC-Home Watch Services or Riggs Request Premier Home Watch.