​Get your boat ready – it’s almost spring!
 
Groundhog Day brought news that lake lovers usually don't want to hear for the upcoming boating season… more cold weather ahead!  BUT… that also means we have more weeks to prepare marine vessels for spring break and beyond. 
 
Now is the time, before spring, to put boats in the shop for servicing, maintenance and upgrades.  Local shops are overloaded during spring rush and that can sometimes result in serious delays to your boating season.  Maintaining and servicing a boat annually protects your investment, and upgrades can substantially help resale value.  

See a list of suggestions below (in alphabetical order):

1.  AFTERMARKET BOAT & TOWER ACCESSORIES - This can be anything from a depth finder to a trailer tail light or board racks for the boat's tower, or even a new tower and so much more.  Try these local companies:  Duskin Point Marina,  Rambo Marine, Inc., Russell Marine - Smith Lake, and Trident Marina.

2.  BOAT DETAILING - unlike basic auto detailing, boats have a gel coat surface over thick heavy fiberglass which is different from metal and plastics used on cars, so different methods, products and materials are needed for repairs, cleaning and refurbishing the finish.  Make sure you use a company that is experienced with delicate boat detailing needs.  We recommend local companies like Bama Detailing, Duskin Point Marina, Rambo Marine, Inc., Russell Marine - Smith Lake, and Trident Marina. 

3.  BOAT LIFTS - for a new lift, installation, and good annual servicing to keep your investment safe and sound, get quotes from Free State Boat Docks,  and Smith Lake Republic.

7.  MARINE AUDIO/VIDEO - Upgrade the entire boat's A/V system if it is not performing on its limited stock system, or if the system is older and needing a few upgrades or component additions.  Perhaps everything is functioning fine, and the system just needs some tuning, repairs or refurb.  Be sure to use professionals who understand the nuances between name brand equipment and how to optimize your system to get the most audio bang for your buck. Clean, clear, high performance sound can substantially energize your day on the lake.
 
8.  MARINE FLOORING - whether it's carpet, engineered marine flooring to upgrade an entire boat, or just pieces of surface material for a back platform, gunwales, or to artfully replace a torn or damaged section, the following local companies can help get your boat looking the best - Duskin Point Marina, Rambo Marine, Inc.,​ Russell Marine - Smith Lake and Trident Marina.

9.  MECHANICAL SERVICE for BOATS & TRAILERS - schedule to get your boat serviced, tuned up, de-winterized and ready to take on the season.  Local companies we suggest:  Duskin Point Marina, Rambo Marine, Inc.,​ Russell Marine - Smith Lake and Trident Marina.

​10.  TOWING SERVICE - get your annual membership NOW and boat worry free all year.  Contact Captain Terry Russeau of TowBoatUS Smith Lake.

11.  UPHOLSTERY - repairs or new - contact Bama Detailing.
 
12.  WATERSPORTS EQUIPMENT - new equipment or rentals - try local shops like Lakeside Gear, Pine Valley Outdoor Living, Rambo Marine, Inc.,​ Russell Marine - Smith Lake, Trident Marina, and Triple Creek Marina.   ​

Once you've got the boat tuned up, spruced up, fully loaded and ready to go, check out our other informational blogs to make sure you are fully prepared for the best boating season every year.  Check back on our blog often as we add new material.  HAVE A SAFE AND HAPPY BOATING SEASON!  

For more businesses in the categories you are looking for, try our Business Listing - Alphabetical, and our Business Listing by Category, and check out more information in our LOCAL INFO tab.  

Latest update to this blog:  2/1/26.  
​

HOME

AT HOME

• Batteries – have every size possibly needed and then some. 
• Blankets or sleeping bags - especially important in cold weather situations when there is no heat.
• Boat prep – well before any threat of bad weather, it’s a good idea to secure marine vessels and cover them properly, as well as remove all watersport equipment and other lake season gear.  It is best to have annual boat maintenance and winterizing done prior to the onset of winter. Most lake residents do this by late fall.  
• Can-opener – non-electric, of course. 
• Cash – preferably in small bills.  Cash is handy in power outages when card readers are down in stores or at gas pumps, assuming one can get to a store or gas station.  
• Clothing – a water-resistant sealed package of clean laundry is advised for any weather emergency, because nothing is better than clean dry clothing after a rough weather period.  For winter weather:  hats, mittens, socks, blankets, jackets, and more clothes for layering.  Long-lasting hand warmers are handy items to have packed and ready to use.
• Coolers – even inexpensive coolers will work to help keep food and meds safe in a power outage, and they are good for transferring refrigerated items to increase shelf life of cold foods.
• Disposable dishware – paper plates, bowls and disposable utensils will save a lot of dishwashing after an inclement weather event.  
• Dock preparation – be sure to remove any items from the dock that could get blown off from wind or damaged from ice or snow.  Secure all dock connections to shore, docking lines on vessels, and prepare boat lifts to function properly. Please see videos on Free State Boat Dock's Instagram page for great tips on securing your dock for all types of situations.  
• Documents (VIP) – safe and sealed hard copies (or digital - on a shared service like DropBox or a thumb drive) copies of personal, financial and medical records:  e.g. medication (dose schedules and other pertinent medical information), proof of address, the lease or deed for the home, passports, birth certificates, insurance policies, credit cards, and social security cards.
• Electrical devices – hopefully, surge protectors for TVs and computers are pre-installed; but, it’s still best to turn off and unplug unnecessary electrical equipment, including sensitive electronics, computers, stoves and washers/dryers that can also be damaged from power surges/spikes.  Leave at least one light on for when the power is restored.  It’s also a good idea to go ahead and locate the breaker box ahead of weather events and advise the entire family of its location and operation.  
• Entertainment – find some fun items to keep the family busy when all electronics are dead or charging.  Consider books, art supplies, craft projects, board games, cards, and download any movies, books, or maps for offline use.  In the event of snow, stock up for outdoor fun as well, e.g. sleds, snowshoes, snowball making devices, etc.
• Fire safety/prevention – test smoke and carbon-monoxide detectors.
• Firewood – make sure to have at least a week’s supply stacked and ready to burn.
• First Aid Kit – for harsh winter conditions, make sure there are warming blankets in the kit along with all the best basics for any injuries.
• Food – non-perishable and some perishables (see list below).  Consider turning the refrigerator/freezer temperature down before a storm event so that the fridge/freezer will hold a cold temp longer.  Keep refrigerator/freezer doors sealed as much as possible prior to the weather onset and obviously after a power outage.  Unopened refrigerators can keep foods optimally cold for at least 4 hours, so use the refrigerated food first.  Use food from the freezer last, as a full freezer will hold a safe temp for about 48 hours if kept tightly closed.  Use non-refrigerated perishable and non-perishable foods last.  If a power outage lasts beyond a day, move pertinent refrigerated foods into coolers pre-stoked with ice before the weather event.  Throw out any questionable food – when in doubt, throw it out!  Take temperatures of food with a thermometer if needed. Anything exposed to temps higher than 40 degrees F for 2 hours or more needs to be disposed of.
• Gas – have tanks full in all vehicles.  Gas stations could lose power.  Consider that cranking and using a car as backup for charging phones/tablets/computers may be necessary at some point if charger banks run down.  Also keep plenty of extra fuel in gas cans to run generators or whatever is needed.  
• Gas (Natural/Propane) – make sure the home’s gas tank for heating/cooking has been filled ahead of anticipated storms and definitely prior to winter weather.  
• Generator – backup power generators are a must.  They are expensive, but a whole house generator is optimal when living in a remote area.  Gas powered generators are also a great back-up plan to run small household items for necessity.  Never run a generator or grill inside garages or homes or too near them.  At the very least, keep a small generator that can charge phones and perform very basic duties when needed. Have long extension cords on hand so the generator does not have to be too close to living quarters.  The generator purchased should be rated for the appropriate amount of power.  When using a portable generator, connect any equipment directly to the outlets on the generator.  Do not connect a portable generator to a home’s electrical system.  Basically, read the instructions and follow them or contact a licensed electrician for instructions, assistance and proper installation.
• Grilling – outdoor grills should be clean and ready to use with all utensils nearby and ready.  Make sure to have charcoal, charcoal lighter fluid, matches/lighters for a charcoal grill, or a full propane tank for a gas grill.
• Heat Source – if using a fireplace, confirm the chimney is clear and have dry wood split and ready to burn.  Electric alternatives are a must, or propane and kerosene powered space heaters (be sure to check safety instructions on these and follow instructions carefully to avoid danger).  For winter weather, it’s best to identify one room in the house as the “warm room” for the family to camp out in if power fails.  This keeps heat isolated to one area so the source doesn’t have to work as hard. Make sure everyone is together for close watch and on alert to minimize accidents or danger.
• Helmets – having these on hand can be a lifesaver during tornadic and straight-line storms for protection from falling debris, but also consider them for winter weather events too. It’s also nice to have these for sledding or purely for safety when traversing icy areas outside since there are many steep areas near homes around the lake.  
• Ice – stored in coolers well ahead of any weather event for milk or anything needing to stay cold.
• Lighting – flashlights (w/batteries), battery-operated candles and/or portable camping lanterns.  Flame candles should be a last resort option due to being a fire hazard.  Each family member needs a flashlight of their own for single tasks such as quick trips to bathrooms, taking out trash, getting firewood, etc.
• Matches/lighters – for lighting a fire in the fireplace, or for outside grills and campfires, and if needed for cooking on a gas stove.
• Medications – at least a full week supply needs to be on hand.  Pick up prescriptions and essential medical supplies early.  Also have back-up batteries for any medical devices that are necessary.  
• Outdoor furniture, lightweight items, tools – however possible, secure these and other items that could potentially blow away or be damaged by heavy ice or snow in winter weather events.  
• Phone chargers and cords – make sure to have pre-charged or battery-operated phone chargers on hand.  Charge all phones, power banks, tablets, and other rechargeables prior to inclement weather events.  Vehicle chargers can be used in emergencies.  
• Photography – for insurance purposes, it is always great to keep updated photos of all property in case of damage/loss.
• Plumbing – in cold weather scenarios, insulate, drain or allow water to drip at a trickle for pipes located in exposed outside walls or otherwise under-heated locations.  Open cabinets to allow warm air circulation around plumbing.  Disconnect hoses outside and properly cover all outdoor spigots. Cover outdoor faucets with insulated caps or wrap with insulation.  Locate water shut-off valves and know how to shut off water quickly if a pipe bursts.
• Power – immediately report any downed power lines to appropriate officials and do not touch or go near them.  Contact neighbors upon discovery.  Identify any nearby neighbors, shelters or businesses that might have power if there is a need to access them in an emergency.  Plan well ahead.
• Radio – have a wireless/battery-operated NOAA weather radio to receive emergency information, plus a regular portable radio for entertainment.
• Refrigeration – set the fridge and freezer to colder temps ahead of time so they hold temperature well, giving food a little longer lifespan. Don’t forget to reset to normal temps after a storm.
• Safety advice – the primary hazards to avoid when using alternate sources for electricity, heating or cooking are carbon monoxide poisoning, electric shock and fire.  Never use a generator, grill, camp stove or other gasoline, propane, natural gas or charcoal-burning device inside a home, garage, basement, crawlspace or any partially-enclosed area.  Locate units away from doors, windows and vents that could allow carbon monoxide to creep indoors.  If a carbon monoxide alarm sounds, move quickly to a fresh air location outdoors, or by an open window or door and call for help. 
• Thermometer – a digital quick-response thermometer can quickly check the internal temps of food to ensure they are cold enough to use safely.  Also have a thermometer ready for food cooked using alternative methods to make sure meat temps are adequate and edible.
• Toiletries – residents may have to take sink baths with water warmed by a fire or gas stove, so prepare products ahead and have plenty of towels clean and ready to go. 
• Tools – keep a shovel or other outdoor equipment to make foot paths and travel areas safer.  Add items like a multipurpose tool, knife, scissors, flares, chainsaw, blower, etc. 
• Vehicle (see list below) –  whenever possible, keep vehicles away from trees and power lines.  
• Water (see list below) – it’s a good idea to fill jugs, buckets or the bathtub with water for flushing and washing.  It’s also good to freeze several water bottles to serve as “ice packs” in coolers to drink when thawed.  

 
 
HOME PANTRY STAPLES
Always consider items that can last a few days:  mainly water, shelf-stable foods, and quick snacks. Even during a power outage, you can stay nourished to have energy for when it’s time to get out into the weather to assess a situation better, or for cooking or doing minor outdoor repairs. Many items are everyday basics.  If you have a stove/oven in operation, you’ll be in much better shape than many people.

Basic non-perishable foods

• Baby food, supplies & medications – for the little ones.
• Baking mixes - foods like pancakes and biscuits can be great fillers and made easily with a hot plate (pancakes) or outdoor griddle, grill or campfire (biscuits).
• Beverages – instant coffee, tea, hot chocolate, etc.
• Bread and Grains  – oats, rice, and other types of grains are filling starches that are easy to make with water/milk. Also consider bagels, cereal, crackers, cookies, chips, toaster pastries and other similar snacks.
• Canned foods/soups – canned fish/meats and fruits/vegetables are useful in a pinch as a substitute for fresh or frozen food. Canned beans, in particular, are versatile and excellent additions for soups and chilis. Be sure to have a manual can opener on hand.
• Condiments & seasonings – a must for grilling out during power outages.
• Granola or protein bars – easy on-the-go snacks that provide quick energy.
• Jarred food – jellies, pickles, meats, etc.
• Milk - shelf-stable or powdered.  Buy practically any type of milk or alternative, just observe storage instructions on packaging.
• MREs – “Meals Ready to Eat” are great to have on hand. Those who have served in the military will surely be familiar with these. 
• Pasta and jarred sauces – an instant meal of just two items.  Pasta is easy to heat up and add anything  for a more rounded nutritional meal.
• Peanut butter and jelly – any nut butter can provide a great source of healthy fats and protein.
• Pet food, supplies & medications – for outdoor animals in winter, consider safe heating sources, covered shelter, and bedding (straw or water-resistant fabric).  
• Snacks – packaged and pre-portioned, easy to grab - e.g. beef jerky, pudding cups, applesauce, etc.

 
Basic perishable foods

• Fresh produce – milk and eggs are great to have for the first few days, but some can spoil quickly if in temps of 40 degrees F or higher for a couple of hours, so consume those first.  
• Fruits and veggies – much like the pantry staples, uncut fruits and some veggies can last for several days outside of refrigeration if the power goes out.
  • Apples
  • Avocados
  • Bananas
  • Carrots
  • Citrus, such as oranges and grapefruits
  • Pears
  • Potatoes
  • Tomatoes
  • Dried fruits and nuts – make a trail mix or just enjoy as an instant snack.
  • Packaged fruit cups or canned fruits and veggies
  • etc.
• Bottled water – for when power goes out, have some on hand for drinking, food prep, washing hands, brushing teeth, sink baths, flushing the toilet.  Stock up for a 3-5 day supply - one (1) gallon per person per day (the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) suggests a gallon a day for each person in the household). 
• Disposable dishware – paper bowls/plates and plastic utensils, plus paper towels and toilet paper.  Helpful when there is no water for dishwashing and no time for extra clean-up duties after power is restored.

HOME PROPERTY WRAP-UP (what to do after a storm)

• Boats/marine vessels – check marine vessels and secure them fully.
• Boat dock – check dock and dock cables/lines and fully secure or repair.
• Contacts list – keep a list of emergency contacts (check our list) so that reaching out for help is quick and easy.
• Debris – clean up debris and place neatly in a location designated for pick up, or find a company to relocate it to a proper dump site, or prepare to discard debris if no pick up is available in the area.
• Drive carefully – realize that roads could be affected, there could be storm debris, and some roads may be closed/blocked.  Remember there may be other anxious drivers out and about.
• Help – consider lending a hand to assist others once personal property and belongings are secured.
• Property inspection – check for downed lines, downed trees, busted plumbing, roof damage, etc.

VEHICLES
 
VEHICLE EMERGENCY PREPAREDNESS

• Battery – test to be sure it is operable and replace if necessary.
• Engine fluid levels – check oil (use synthetic oil in cool temps), washer fluid (use de-icing fluid in cold temps), coolant/anti-freeze, brake fluid, power steering fluid, etc. It’s best to keep fluid levels optimal at all times, and keep good records on this type of maintenance.
• Lighting – test headlights and taillights to be sure they are fully operable.
• Tires – inspect tread, check for leaks, (winter weather: install snow tires if pertinent, or have tire chains on hand).

 

VEHICLE EMERGENCY KIT 

• Air Compressor (portable) – consider one that also offers charging ports for phones or other convenient features.
• Blankets or sleeping bags – preferably water-resistant materials.
• Clothing – preferably water-resistant materials.  For winter:  mittens/gloves, hats, boots, coats, and thinner warm layering pieces.  For all weather events, it is handy to have an extra set of clothing and underwear to replace any that become wet/soiled/exposed to elements.
• First Aid Kit – add one to the trunk and inspect it often, but definitely before any trip that might encounter adverse weather conditions.
• Food – ready to eat is best, plus snacks and high-calorie non-perishable foods.
• Gas – make sure all vehicles have a full tank.
• Lighting – battery-operated, chargeable flashlights or camping lanterns.
• Medication – extra prescription medicine should be something always available for trips and unexpected events.
• Mobile phone and supplies – cell phone chargers, relevant cords, pre-charged mobile power banks.
• Tires – spare tire(s) and basic operable jack.
• Toilet – bucket to use as an emergency toilet, trash bags to line it and for sanitary disposal, plus tissues, toilet paper, wet wipes and paper towels.
• Tools – flares, jumper/booster cables, knife, multipurpose tool, scissors, tire gauge, tow ropes/straps, plus a window breaker and seatbelt cutter, which should already be in the tool kit for other types of emergencies (winter pertinent:  ice scraper with brush, snow shovel with brush).
• Traction material – sand or cat litter for assisting a stuck vehicle in a muddy/icy/snowy area.  
• Travel – park vehicles away from large trees and loose limbs whenever possible.  During severe thunderstorms and tornado warnings, stay put - it is not safe to drive during these conditions.  Winter specific: make it a family plan to avoid driving once freezing rain begins and wait to get back on the road after weather reporters advise it is safe to do so.  Remember that bridges, overpasses and shaded roads freeze first and longest.  Assume that in any difficult weather conditions, flights and travel can be disrupted for days at a time.  
• Water – consider one (1) gallon per person per day.
• Wipers – replace old wiper blades and top off washer fluid.

 
List update:  1/25/26
Writer:  The Lakeside Life Team - compilation list

A favorite time of year for all those who LAKE is Boat Show Season - usually occurring at the beginning of every year, January - March.  For us, it means SPRING is just around the corner.  It seems the lake community revs up into high gear for a new boating season as soon as the clock strikes midnight on New Year's Eve!  

Many enjoy attending several boat shows each year.  Favorite shows are within about a 3 hour driving range.  Attending shows allows a great reason to get out and go visit another city, reconnect with other boating friends aka "your lake people," and getting excited for a new lake season by checking out the vendors - favorite boat brands, marinas, lake life brands and lake-oriented businesses.  

Attached is the list of 2026 boat shows you might like to attend - in order by date.  All shows are a reasonable drive from the lake area.  (We'll try to update this listing each year as soon as we get confirmed info, but also keep the contact information on hand so that you know how to reach out annually for additional information, vendor apps, vendor lists, floorplans/maps and tickets.)

NOTE:  THIS BLOG IS UPDATED ANNUALLY - SO AS SOON AS DATES BEGIN TO FIRM UP FOR A GIVEN YEAR, CHECK BACK IN!  Keep in mind, most event dates will not firm up until very close to the holiday due to hosts needing to be sure of weather conditions before committing to dates/times.  

Get ready to have some fun this year on Smith Lake for the 4th of July.  Most folks are planning a nice long weekend due to the holiday falling on Friday.  Many expect an influx of friends and family to entertain all week.  There is plenty to do all around the large tri-county lake area.  

Independence Day on Smith Lake is special, rain or shine. Locals always pray for summer storms to hold back for the holiday's events.  If it's perfect weather, you'll see fireworks big and small all around the lake the entire holiday weekend.  Enjoy viewing small private celebrations from the water as you boat home carefully and slowly along the lake area after sunset, and after a long day of fun in the sun.  If there is inclement weather in the evenings, most of the main annual events will reschedule. 

There are several big fireworks shows that have been submitted so far, see the list below this blog.  

• "OFF WATER" = fireworks that are not along a shoreline or visible from the water.
• "ON WATER" = the event is on the shoreline and can best be viewed by boat at a safe distance.  

Check back to this list to see if any dates are rescheduled due to weather or other factors.  If a favorite event near you cancels, watch to see if they revise plans, try out another event nearby on another day, or just thoroughly enjoy your own private celebration.  If you celebrate at home, include plenty of red-white-and-blue decor (check our Amazon store for ideas in holiday decor and more).  Be sure to stock up on holiday essentials like:  flags, sparklers & fireworks, outdoor games, backyard grilling items, a charcuterie board for s'mores, and/or a churn for homemade ice cream (<---click link for recipe), plus all the toppings and much more.  For boaters, load up with floats, towables, watersports equipment, and all the basic boating essentials.   Stock up on ALL the favorites of summertime.  Then simply kick back and enjoy the fun, laughter, experiences, and daily wind-downs by the fire pit - MAKE MEMORIES!  Also, visit the Smith Lake #spotsonsmith checklist on the map by Sue Clements to see some of our favorite spots on the lake while out boating.  No matter how you celebrate, the weekend is truly a favorite for all who spend it on Smith Lake.
​
​Check out our LOCAL INFO listings for everything from restaurants to shopping and so much more.  Our Cullman, Walker & Winston County areas welcome you with wide open arms, and would love to have you spend some time shopping locally for your weekend of entertaining.  Have questions?  Reach out!  

Be sure to "@" mention us on social media OR send in photos of the events you attend.  Let us know if you want us to post the photos on social media or if you’d like them to be featured in the blog or magazine.  Join the Facebook Group "Smith Lake Community" to keep up with what's going on around the lake in case impromptu events pop up.  

​Be safe, have a blessed holiday and enjoy!  

(EVENT HOSTS - Please let us know well ahead of any other events that need to be added to the list for the entire weekend and remember to keep us updated as time nears based on weather or other factors.  Thank you!)

You can find other local area events on our CALENDAR page.  Please let us know of any events to add.

Latest update to this blog:  7/1/25.  ​

Listing is by date from first to last events for the holiday weekend.

EVENTS in RED boxes are not yet confirmed by the HOSTS - they need to text us at 256-708-7679 or email us [email protected] ASAP.  Thanks!  

PURPLE boxes indicate the event is not happening this year, but may be rescheduled for another year or future holiday.