5 Steps to Avoid a Spring Cabin Disaster

Turn the water on last The most common spring cabin mistake is turning on the water before checking for leaks, broken pipes, or mice nests. A slow drip behind a wall causes mold before you unpack.

Start outside Walk the property and check for fallen trees, roof damage, and animal intrusions. Open windows to air out the musty smell.

Inspect all plumbing first Check every pipe, faucet, and toilet you can see. Flush out any antifreeze left in p-traps from last fall.

Turn the main water valve on slowly Once everything looks intact, turn the valve on gradually. Watch for drips and listen for a few minutes.

Check furnace and electricity next Inspect pilot lights, gas lines, and CO detectors before you need heat. Flip breakers one at a time so a rodent-chewed wire trips a breaker instead of starting a fire.