Canning Weekend No. 3 is right around the corner. With winter seemingly here already after plenty of snow and ice over Thanksgiving break, chances are it’s going to get pretty cold this weekend. For all you first time canners out there, here are some tips to survive the weekend:

Gloves

I cannot stress this enough. Just imagine holding that metal can outside in cold weather for a few hours. You’re fingers will freeze and frostbite is not fun. If you haven’t already made the investment, seriously go out and buy a good pair of gloves. These will also come in handy (see what I did there?) next semester when we hit the single digits. And if you must get the kind of gloves that you can text through, at least wait until you’re done canning to try them out!

Layer Up

If you’re feeling too hot, peel one off. Be sure to bring a raincoat or something water and wind resistant just in case as well. If you still have the time (and money) to make a trip to Appalachian Outdoors downtown, I personally recommend getting a Patagonia Nano Puff jacket; they’re super-light, easy to pack, and ridiculously warm.

Extra Socks

This is one of the most valuable lessons I learned from my good ol’ days as a Boy Scout. If your socks get wet, change them immediately. Wet feet not only feel miserable, but they can seriously get you sick. Just have an extra pair with you in case you step in a puddle or something. Better safe than sorry.

Take breaks

After a few hours of standing outside, you deserve a hot chocolate and jelly donut. Treat yo self.

Charge Your Phone

Cold weather and smart phones don’t get along well, so you’re battery will drain a lot faster than it usually does – plan accordingly. You never know when you might need a phone, so make sure you’ve got at least one in your canning group.

And that sums it up folks! Seriously though, canning is a great way to raise funds for THON and we only have three weekends to do it a year, so make the most of it. Dress warm, be safe, and remember to make that bank FTK.