batten the hatches 

a) (original meaning) : among winter time lobster and crab fishermen in North America: on a vessel, to close all entrances to the lower decks and crew cabins when you are in a storm

b) (my new and improved meaning): in Atlantic Canada and New England and in cities such as New York, Boston, Montreal, Halifax, to insulate the doors and windows of one's house for the winter months.

to batten the hatches definition b), even if it costs a small fortune, is a snow-brainer if you live in Canada or The northeastern United States

batten the hatches by Uncle Dimma March 7, 2015

batten the hatches 

a) (original meaning) : among fishermen in North America: on a vessel, especially vessels dedicated to winter time lobster and crab fishing, to close all entrances to the lower decks and crew cabins when you are in a storm

b) (my new and improved meaning): in Atlantic Canada and New England, a term meaning, in cities such as New York, Boston, Montreal, Halifax, to insulate the doors and windows of one's house for the winter months.

if you want to properly hibernate, be prepared to batten the hatches definition b), even if it costs a small fortune.

batten the hatches by Uncle Dimma December 9, 2014

batten down the hatches 

Nautical: secure a boat's hatch-tarpaulins, esp. when rough weather is expected.

Figurative: prepare for a difficult time or crisis, trouble is coming.

Oh ohh, batten down the hatches, here comes the tax collector.

batten down the hatches by uvu November 19, 2007