Winter is here and the time to prepare is now. Anza Valley Outlook/Diane Sieker photo
Wintery weather will arrive in the Anza Valley and surrounding mountain communities any day now. Freezing temperatures are common at this time of year, but sometimes the bitter cold and vicious winds accompanied by some winter storms can take homeowners by surprise.Frozen and broken water pipes, dead car batteries, shivering livestock, low supplies of heating fuel and iced windshields have plagued many residents in past years, especially newcomers to the area.There are many things that can be done to prepare homes, cars and animals for the cold season, so that they are ready when the mercury dips below 32 degrees.Winterizing the house is crucial. Storms and extended freezes can cause dry rot, downed tree branches, roof leaks, broken water pipes and flooding. Preparing for the w
