Living in Kentucky means you typically have the pleasure of getting four distinct seasons every year, plus there's a variety of terrains in the Bluegrass State. Because of this, we have to be prepared for regularly encountering unique situations. That means there's always items tucked away in closets, under beds, in the attic, or in the garage...just in case. This list of items you might find in homes in Kentucky is based more on Kentuckians in rural areas, but a lot of them apply to city dwellers as well!

Here are ten things that living in Kentucky means you likely own:

1. Protection

Whether you're pro-second amendment or not, guns are a realistic means of protection here. Even a simple warning shot can be valuable if you feel threatened by a human or animal intruder. Other reliable sources of protection include bows, knives, or guard dogs.Not to mention, many Kentuckians are fond of hunting!

2. Allergens

No matter where you go in Kentucky, but especially in the Ohio Valley, you will likely discover allergens. Our ground is fertile and produces a lush plant life. This raises the pollen count, and, when mixed with the humidity, it raises our mold levels. This (and other common Bluegrass allergens) can be the bane of allergy sufferers' existence.

3. Boots

Cowboy, rain, high heeled, flats, riding, work, or low cut, boots are the mandatory unspoken official footwear of the Bluegrass. You might just wear them for dressy events or to go out in the rain. Others may wear them to work the farm. Boots are incredibly versatile and you can find them in just about all homes in Kentucky.

4. Sports Items

Somewhere, tucked away in a drawer, hanging in a closet, or on display in a cabinet, is something pertaining to the University of Kentucky or University of Louisville. It may be a shirt, key chain, shot glass, poster, pin, or just about anything...as long as it pertains to the Wildcats or the Cardinals. Whether you attended one of these schools or not, chances are good you own some sort of memento from them.

5. Chain or Rope

You never know when you'll need to help pull someone on the road (or pull yourself onto the road!). Chains and/or ropes are just about a necessity in the winter here.

6. Saw

You may have an electric, manual, or a chain saw. Saws make clearing low-hanging limbs or fallen trees a lot easier.

7. Cast Iron Skillet

These make the best cornbread you've ever eaten. It is said they can last for centuries if properly cared for. They're also great for breakfast, Burgoo, or just about anything you want to cook up. Cast iron provides a unique flavor and the pans are often handed down for generations.

8. Handmade Items

It may be from a child, parent, or grandparent, but just about everyone owns some type of handmade gift. In elementary school, most students end up making gifts for their elders at some point. It might be a painting, carving, or ornament. Many of our elderly relatives crochet, knit, or sew, and gift us with the warmest throws we'll ever own, and they'll be handed down from generation to generation. We love our family and we love the gifts they make for us!

9. Corn Bread

Or at least corn meal. It's particularly popular with chili or beans. Some of the most widely used cornbread companions are pinto beans, gumbo, sausage soup, or milk. Having just a piece on its own with a little bit of butter is also a popular favorite.

10. Iced Tea

Tea is so common in just about every household. Some people have altered the base a bit, but it's still tea. Herbal teas have become increasingly popular and can be served hot or cold, but we are Southerners and we love our iced sweet tea.

Some of these things may be common items in any home in the South, but they're just about guaranteed in homes in Kentucky. There are some other things that appear in lots of homes: feel free to add suggestions in the comments. What other relatable things about Kentucky can you think of?