
π§³ Before You Arrive
A few quick tips to help you prepare for your stay:
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ποΈ Linens & Towels
We provide:
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Comforters, pillows
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Hand towels, dishcloths, dishtowels
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Handsoap, Dishsoap, Dishwasher pods
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Shampoo, Conditioner, Bodywash
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3 rolls of toilet paper per washroom (x4 washrooms)
Please bring:
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Bed linens, pillowcases
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Note: 1 King bed, 3 Queen beds, 2 double beds (we just added the additional double bed in the office), 2 twin beds.
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Shower towels and beach towels
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Any personal items you may need
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*Optional* Bottled water for consumption. **Note, we are on a well and have a Brita. We generally use the water for cooking and coffee, however it has not been tested**
π½οΈ Food & Kitchen
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The kitchen is stocked with basic cookware, dishes, utensils and basic spices and cooking oil
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Bring your own groceries, snacks, and any specialty cooking items
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There will be Folgers Coffee, Coffeemate and sugar in the pantry.
π¦οΈ Weather & Packing
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Check the local forecast before you arrive
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Pack layers, rain gear, sunscreen, bug spray, and water shoes
Outdoor Space
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We have 5 Heavy Duty Muskoka Chairs on the Dock, and 14 additional lightweight plastic chairs surrounding the firepit and other places on the property.
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We have one bag of firewood for your use during your stay. Please bring any additional you require, and feel free to use any brush from the surrounding forest.
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We have multiple standup paddleboards, kayaks, a canoe and paddleboat plus paddles
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We have a few lifejackets of various sizes in the shed near the water.
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We will have one full propane tank available for your use.
Baby Items
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We have a pack n play, highchair, baby bath and bouncy chair for your use
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πΊοΈ Plan Ahead
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Browse the “Things to Do in the Area” section for local attractions and events
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Consider booking restaurants or activities in advance, especially during busy seasons
πͺ When You Arrive
π Parking: There’s space for 4–6 vehicles in the driveway—both near the cottage and at the entrance.
π Entry & Setup
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The main door uses a keypad code, which we’ll share with you directly before your arrival.
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Once inside, check that:
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Power is on
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Water is running
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Temperature is comfortable
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If anything seems off or if you notice damage that occurred before your arrival, please let us know right away.
π‘ During Your Stay
We’ve equipped the cottage with essentials to help you stay safe and comfortable during your visit.
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π Cottage Safety
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First Aid Kit: Located in the kitchen with band-aids and basic supplies. Let us know if you use anything beyond band-aids so we can restock.
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Fire Extinguisher: Located in the laundry room. Please notify us if used.
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Smoke & Carbon Monoxide Detectors: Installed throughout the cottage. Please do not tamper with or disable them.
π§ Water System
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Water is supplied from a private well.
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You’ll hear the pump when water is in use. If it runs continuously or doesn’t run at all, contact us.
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A switch on the pressure tank may occasionally stick—call us and we’ll walk you through resetting it.
π½ Septic System
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Only flush septic-safe toilet paper.
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Do not flush tissues, sanitary products, or large wads of paper.
β‘ Electricity & Power Outages
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The main electrical panel is in the basement utility room.
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Flashlights and lanterns are in the kitchen near the first aid kit.
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Avoid opening the fridge/freezer during outages.
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Water and toilets won’t function during a power outage.
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If power is out for more than 4 hours, contact us. A backup generator is available.
π‘οΈ Heating
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Radiant in-floor heating in the basement (thermostat beside the TV). Keep at or below 20°C.
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Forced air heating upstairs (thermostat outside the master bedroom).
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Upon arrival, adjust thermostats as needed. Before departure:
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Set basement thermostat to 15°C
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Turn off upstairs thermostat
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The oil boiler also supplies hot water, so it may run in summer.
π½οΈ Kitchen & Cooking
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Fully equipped with cookware, dishes, utensils, toaster, drip coffee maker, microwave, stove/oven, fridge, and dishwasher.
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Provided: dish soap, sponges, and dishwasher pods.
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Help yourself to spices and staples. Let us know if supplies run low.
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Please don’t leave food out—it may attract mice.
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If anything breaks, let us know. Accidents happen!
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πΆ Wi-Fi & Entertainment
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Suitable for streaming and video calls. Limit active devices for best performance.
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TV: Smart Google TV. Log into your own accounts and log out before leaving.
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π BBQ
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Located on the deck. Extra propane tank beside it.
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BBQ utensils are in the kitchen.
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Clean after use (brushes under BBQ), close the lid, and don’t cover when wet.
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Pull BBQ away from the cottage siding to avoid damage.
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ποΈ Waste & Recycling
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Collection Day: Monday by 9 AM
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Don’t put bins out the night before—animals may get into them.
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Garbage can is stored in the front shed; secure the lid when in use.
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Garbage
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1 standard-size clear bag/week.
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No oversize or contractor bags.
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Bags (garbage, compost, recycling) are stored on the floor to the right of the lower kitchen cabinets.
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Recycling
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Daily recycling can be collected in bins under the kitchen counter.
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Transfer to large bins in the shed near the lake.
π² Games & Puzzles
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Games: Basement cabinet in games room.
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Puzzles: Basement cabinet in games room.
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Please return items and keep pieces together.
πΎ Pets
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Pets welcome with prior written permission.
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Keep pets off furniture and clean up after them.
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We cannot guarantee the cottage is allergen-free.
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π Screened Porch
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Great for relaxing bug-free!
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Don’t leave food out—crumbs attract animals.
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Always latch the porch door and close the main door at night.
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Move furniture away from windows during heavy rain.
π οΈ Front Shed
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Where the garbage and recycling is stored
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Use the shed to store bikes and gear.
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Contains basic tools and garbage storage.
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Leave unlocked if you wish, but loop the padlock through the latch to keep animals out.
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Lock before you leave.
π« Garage Access
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The garage will be locked and is not intended for guest use. Please do not attempt to access it during your stay.
π About Healey Lake
Nestled just outside Bracebridge, Healey Lake is a quiet, scenic retreat perfect for relaxing and reconnecting with nature. With minimal boat traffic and calm waters, it’s ideal for peaceful mornings spent paddling or canoeing.
Swimming & Waterfront Tips
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The water near the main dock is shallow and can be weedy at times—we do our best to keep it clear, but nature has its own rhythm!
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There’s a sandy walk-in area that’s perfect for dipping your toes or letting little ones splash and play safely.
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For deeper, clearer water, we recommend using the paddleboard or paddleboat to reach the floating dock or head toward the middle of the lake for a refreshing swim.
Paddling & Exploring
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The lake is small and serene, making it perfect for a morning paddleboard session or a leisurely canoe ride.
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To the west of the cottage, a small stream exits the lake. Adventurous guests can follow this waterway to discover secluded lakes that offer excellent fishing opportunities.
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Please be cautious when navigating through these areas—avoid disturbing any natural dams or wildlife habitats.
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Healey Lake Island: If you look out to the lake you will see the Island, this is a place that is shared by all Cottagers, and you are welcome to go explore or have a picnic on the island. Just make sure to take all your garbage with you when you leave.
π£βοΈ Waterfront Amenities
We’ve stocked the waterfront with plenty of gear to help you enjoy Healey Lake to the fullest—whether you're paddling, floating, or simply soaking up the sun.
Available for Your Use
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Paddleboat – Great for exploring the lake or heading out to the floating dock.
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Paddle boards – A few older boards that work well for paddling around.
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Kayaks - 2 x small Kayaks great for exploring the lake or heading out to the floating dock
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Canoe - One 14' Canoe great for exploring the lake or heading out to the floating dock
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Pool noodles – Great for kids and adults alike.
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Extra chairs– For relaxing by the lake.
Relax & Enjoy
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Sun deck at the lakefront with an umbrella and chairs—perfect for morning coffee or sunset views.
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Aluminum dock with 5 Heavy Duty Muskoka chairs at the end for enjoying the lake.
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Small deck box by the lake holds additional water toys and water guns.
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Open yard space for games—feel free to bring ladder golf, footballs, or soccer balls.
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We’re always adding new amenities and games, so you might discover a few surprises during your stay!
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πΆ Lake Shed
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What You’ll Find Inside
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Life jackets (various sizes)
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Paddles
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Umbrellas for shade on sunny days
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Usage Notes
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The shed is unlocked—no passcode required.
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Please return items to their proper place after use.
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Close the door securely to keep critters out.
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If anything is missing or damaged, leave a note in the guest log or let us know.
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Safety Reminders
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Life jackets are stored in the Lake shed.
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Ensure each person in a boat has a life jacket.
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All boats should have a safety kit: bailer, rope, and an extra paddle.
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π Umbrella Use
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The umbrella has a crank to open and a handle to adjust the height.
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On windy days, lower the umbrella when not in use to prevent damage.
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π₯ Fire Pit
Enjoy the fire pit located in the yard by the lake.
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We provide one bag of firewood per stay, stored beside the cottage.
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You’re welcome to collect fallen sticks and kindling from the yard and woods.
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Additional firewood can be purchased at on your way into Bracebridge, or at the gas station on Cedar Lane.
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Fire Safety Tips
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Check the fire safety rating on the sign at Fraserburg Road or online at www.bracebridge.ca/firedangerrating
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Fires are permitted only between 6 PM and 8 AM.
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Never leave a fire unattended or build one that’s too large.
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Ensure the fire is completely out before leaving the area.
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During a Fire Ban, all open-air fires and fireworks are prohibited. Fines start at $250.
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π£ Fishing on Healey Lake
Healey Lake is a peaceful spot for anglers of all experience levels.
What You’ll Find
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Species: Smallmouth Bass, Largemouth Bass, Northern Pike, Yellow Perch
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Best Times: Early morning and late evening
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Tips:
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Bass: near rocky shorelines and submerged logs
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Pike: deeper waters and weed beds—use spinnerbaits or spoons
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Perch: found in shallows, great for beginners
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Licenses & Regulations
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A valid Ontario Fishing License is required for ages 18–64.
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Purchase online or at local retailers.
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Check the latest rules: Ontario Fishing Regulations Summary
Local Bait & Tackle
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Gravenhurst Canadian Tire – Gear, bait, and licenses
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Muskoka Outfitters (Bracebridge) – Outdoor supplies and fishing accessories
π§Ή Before You Leave
While we will have the cottage professionally cleaned after your stay, we kindly ask that you leave the property in the same general condition and order in which you found it. This helps us prepare the space for the next guests and ensures a smooth transition.
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π§Ύ Cottage Departure Checklist
Screened Porch
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Return cushions, table, and chairs to their original positions
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Latch the screen door securely
Living & Common Areas
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Tidy up games, remote controls, books, and cushions
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Return furniture to its original arrangement
Kitchen
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Wipe down countertops, microwave, and stovetop
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Empty and dry the kettle
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Wash, dry, and put away all dishes (leave in drying rack if not fully dry)
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Empty the dishwasher or run it just before leaving
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Clean the coffee maker
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Empty and clean the fridge, freezer, and cupboards of all food
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Remove all garbage and recycling from under the sink and place in the appropriate bins in the garbage shed by the road
Bedrooms
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Remove all personal items from dressers, closets, and under beds
Bathrooms
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Remove all personal towels and toiletries
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Flush toilets
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Place any used towels in the washing machine. If possible, not necessary, please turn the washing machine on
General Areas
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Return all indoor and outdoor furniture, boats, and water toys to their original places
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Ensure fire in the firepit is completely out
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Hang up all life jackets
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Clean the BBQ, close the lid, and replace the cover (only if BBQ is cool and dry)
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Collect garbage from all rooms and place in a large clear bag and place them in the appropriate bins in the garbage shed by the road. No more than ONE garbage bag is allowed. Any additional must be brought home or to the dump at 1244 Rosewarne Dr, Bracebridge, ON
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Close and lock all windows
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Turn off all fans and lights
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Set basement thermostat to 13°C (if applicable)
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Lock the shed
π¨ In Case of Emergency
π₯ Nearest Hospital
South Muskoka Memorial Hospital – Muskoka Algonquin Healthcare
π 75 Ann Street, Bracebridge, ON
π (705) 645-4404
π Emergency Room open 24 hours
π Emergency Services
For any serious emergencies, call 911 immediately.
π¬ Contact Us
If you have any questions, concerns, or non-emergency issues during your stay, feel free to reach out:
π Cottage Floorplans
First Floor

Basement/Walkout
