Highlights from the FOCA magazine, courtesy of Ed and Ron.
Federation of Ontario Cottager’s Association (FOCA) Update for the end of 2007
Hello Matinenda Cottagers! Ed and I received the FOCA magazine for the end of 2007. Here are the highlights:
- FOCA remains committed to strengthening advocacy, education, free-flowing communication and a healthy financial base.
- Safe clean water is a primary FOCA issue, because of expanding populations on waterways.
- Property tax reform is part of a continuing dialogue between FOCA and the 3 major political parties to install a 5% cap on annual assessment increases.
- Cottagers should remember to close a cottage for the winter with wind and weather first in mind. The next concern in insurance claims is fire. Burglary and vandalism, although present, are the least claimed for insurance payments. Have a list for closing, to prevent forgetting by distraction. Check your insurance policy for coverage. Off season visits may be required to keep the policy in force if you are away. Have emergency information available if visitors are using the cottage so you can be contacted. Keep the cottage looking kept, tight, and close the chimney flue if you are gone in the winter to keep the critters out. For winter closing you all should know to drain the water out of lines, have drains open or put RV antifreeze in drains and traps. Always have someone you trust who can keep an eye on your cottage/camp. For more information check out www.foca.on.ca
- Be Dam Safe: lots of points are included. Basically, stay away from the dam structure and the moving water, above and below the dam. Don’t jump the boom logs up stream. Obey all warning signs.
- Crown Land Camping: Check with the MNR in Blind River about camp sites, permits and expectations before venturing out on Lake Matinenda.
- Abandoned or sunken vessels which are of concern, or are hazards to navigation may be reported to the Coast Guard at 1-800-265-0237.
- Animals in your headlights: Scan road side to side. Slow up in wilderness areas. Use high beams when possible. Keep vehicle straight, don’t swerve. Break and stop for an animal. They may not move. Remember other animals may follow one crossing a road.
- Bear with this: Bears like garbage. Take it away. Use disinfectant to douse odors from containers. Grease dumped outside attracts bears, even porcupines. Burn grease off barbecues. Clean it, store it in a secure area. Don’t leave food outside for you or for pets or critters. When leaving the cottage don’t leave the food. Pudding or fruit flavored desserts may attract bears to break in. Have a trusted person, who knows how to contact you, check for damage or break-ins over your extended absence. Problems? Call Police, 911 to report break ins. For bear problems call: 1-866-514-2327. For information check: www.ontario.ca/bearwise
For Property Tax reform and action: write your new MPP where you live or check out www.captr.org (Coalition After Property Tax Reform)
There it is. The bear facts are above, and check out link information on this website from Environment Canada. Also go to www.wraft.com.
Ron Servatius, Secretary/Director LMCA