BUTTE, MT - Winter in Montana is no joke.

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When those subzero temperatures settle in, they don’t just affect your daily routine—they can wreak havoc on anything left unprotected.

Every year, homeowners across the state underestimate how damaging extreme cold can be, and the cost of that mistake can hit hard.

From frozen equipment to hazardous material leaks, your garage may be hiding wintertime dangers you're not even thinking about.

It’s time to ask yourself: What’s lurking in your garage that shouldn’t be there this winter?

We all tend to use our garages as catch-alls—storing tools, chemicals, seasonal gear, and more. But when winter rolls in, certain items left behind can become serious safety risks.

Some materials can freeze, expand, or become highly flammable under cold conditions. Others may break down, crack, or release harmful fumes that could affect your family's health.

And trust us, those dangers only increase when you're dealing with the unpredictable weather patterns Montana is known for.

Even seemingly harmless objects can become costly surprises by spring. Tools that get exposed to constant freeze-thaw cycles can corrode beyond repair. Fragile electronics or appliances may stop working entirely.

And let’s not forget the possibility of fuel or chemical spills contaminating your entire garage floor—or worse, creating a fire hazard.

Don't wait until it’s too late.

There are seven key items that should be moved out of your garage right now before winter tightens its icy grip.

Taking a few simple precautions today could save you from expensive repairs, safety risks, and countless headaches down the road.

Curious what those items are? You might be surprised.

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