A Boundary County new resident starter kit

Many people are moving to our great part of the world, whether it is because of the lifestyle, the recreational opportunities, property opportunities, politics, relatives, friends, and the list can go on and on.

Welcome ... unless you are running from the law — then your welcome kit will consist of special bracelets and lodging at the Sheriff’s Office.

Here are a few suggestions to hopefully help with becoming a North Idahoan. Most people would recommend for whatever reason you moved to this area, try to embrace it and not change it to fit what you left.

The people of Boundary County are mostly self-reliant, friendly, and reach out to help neighbors with their needs. Consider getting involved in the community through volunteer work or becoming part of a church to get to know people and become part of the community.

Our county relies on volunteers for many of the things that make our area special. The local fire departments, search and rescue, Crisis line, animal shelter, food banks, etc. are great places to volunteer and give back to your new community and neighbors.

We have typically four seasons, and you should be prepared with proper clothing for the different seasons. Sometimes you may have to switch how you dress throughout the day due to changing weather. There are some great stores in Bonners Ferry to find appropriate clothing and shoes with knowledgeable people to direct you on proper choices for the season.

As we approach winter, make sure that you have appropriate tires for winter driving. Some tires do not do well on icy roads. Check with Les Schwab Tire Center, North Hill Tire, or Dyck’s for an evaluation on your current tires or a recommendation on other tires.

Slow down, it takes longer to stop when the roads get icy, and don’t rely on your outside temperature reading in your vehicle to determine if the roads are icy. The pavement can be black ice even when your vehicle outside temperature shows above freezing.

Be prepared if you should slide off the road or be in an accident by carrying extra warm blankets in the vehicle and have a water bottle and some energy bars to keep you going in case you are stuck for awhile.

It is a good idea to keep your cell phone on your person, in some accidents, especially roll overs the cell phone, if not on your person, is thrown around inside the cab, or even outside where you may not be able to reach or find it to call for help. There is limited cell phone service in many parts of our county. In many places you can now text 911 if a cell phone call will not go out.

Make sure that your windshield is clear of snow or ice before driving down the highway, and don’t leave your vehicle outside unlocked and running. You do live in an area where crime may not be as much of a concern as where you moved from, but we still have people that may drive off with your vehicle if they find it unlocked and running.

Speaking of winter, if you happened to move out to a Timbuktu part of the county and wonder why your road is not plowed first thing, keep in mind that County Road and Bridge does a great job of plowing the 710 lane miles of county roads with limited resources and makes the bus routes a priority. Sit back and enjoy another cup of coffee and realize that they will be around as soon as they can.

You have made the choice to live here for a reason and we welcome you as a North Idahoan. Put on your warm boots and jacket and get to know your neighbors.