9 tips from the pros to help you weather DC's historic snowstorm

When we started measuring the potential snow from what will likely be an historic weekend blizzard in FEET--instead of inches--that's when things got real. But while most D.C. area residents aren't used to snowfall totals in the double digits, some people are.

That includes our friends at some of our sister stations to the north, who have been known to laugh at us when we freak out over a few inches of snow (that never happened, BTW). But because they DO know their stuff, we decided to ask them how we'll ever survive to share their tips for weathering a legit snowstorm like a pro.

Here are a few big snowstorm survival tips shared with us by our friends at FOX 9 in Minneapolis, and FOX 2 in Detroit (if any of these fail, you know who to call):

1. FLIP THOSE WIPER BLADES UP.
This one we knew (does that make us pros?? We're guessing no). If you flip the wiper blades up on your car, they won't get buried in the snow that collects on your windshield. This is especially true for that wet, heavy show--like the kind we're going to get.

2. FILL 'ER UP AND DON'T FORGET TRACTION.
Keep at least a ½ tank of gas in your car, along with some kitty litter or sand to give your tires traction if you get stuck (HACK: you can also use your floor mats).

3. DON'T SHOVEL INTO THE STREET.
It's dangerous--and in a lot of northern cities, it's also illegal. Not to mention it makes it really hard to drive around, and can even cause a crash.

4. WHEN IT COMES TO SHOVELING, USE YOUR LEGS!
… and not your back. And that brings us to the next tip…
(And before you read it, know that the rest of the tips come from our friends in Detroit)

5. SHOVEL EARLY, SHOVEL OFTEN.
Do NOT wait for the snow to pile up or you're asking for back trouble, stress and for those at risk a heart attack, well… that spells more trouble. Take a tip from the pros and get out once an hour and keep it light. Think of it as a cardio workout. Wear spandex and play music while you shovel. Your neighbors will love it, we promise.

6. (DON'T DRIVE BUT WHEN YOU DO) CLEAN OFF YOUR CAR FIRST.
Don't let the momentum of the car and wind do the work. It doesn't work-- you end up with blind spots. AND - you end up creating a white wash for other drivers. Take the time, wear gloves, use a scraper, play some music and wear spandex.

7. HOT CHOCOLATE WITH PEPPERMINT SCHNAPPS.
No description needed.

8. WATCH THE SNOW FALL FROM A HOT TUB.
Don't have one? Take a bath near a window where you can see the snow fall. There's something about being so civilized and secure that you can bathe in hot water as nature kicks ass outside. It's uber relaxing. Can't do that either? Make a foot bath. Try it-- you will not believe how it works.

Note to self: Don't give our Detroit friends any more peppermint schnapps.

9. BUILD AN IGLOO!
Forget the snowmen. Igloos and snow forts are where it's at in a real winter storm. And according to the Detroiters, it's amazing how warm an igloo will be inside if you put a candle inside. (??) They also suggest adding a hot bath, drinking schnapps with a little hot chocolate splashed in, and wearing spandex.

Get the real igloo how-to here: http://www.treehugger.com/family/how-build-igloo.html