The cold snap that has hit North Texas is settling in for the long haul. The National Weather Service said temperatures will drop below freezing tonight and remain there through tomorrow morning before rising up again during mid-afternoon hours on Wednesday afternoon/evening timeline as we head into springtime.
The worst of this year’s winter storm may be over, but it will take time before we can say that the effects were minimal. Reports from last years deep freeze tell us there are still several risks in North Texas due to ice blanketed roads and burst pipes caused by frozen floods earlier today which could have been much worse if not for quick action taken on behalf of our community members as residents handle their own needs during times like these.
Winter Storm Safety Tips
Winter is a time filled with festive delights—glittering lights, twinkling trees, and can’t-wait-for-the-snow days. But the cold weather months also bring potential dangers to those enjoying the snow and ice. After a storm has passed, parents should talk to their children about staying safe in winter weather conditions.
During a Winter Storm
Stay Indoors as much as possible because road conditions are generally worse than normal roads during a winter storm event due to falling snow from above and accumulations of slush from below. Driving can be extremely hazardous. If you must go out, have a winter survival kit in your vehicle with the necessary supplies to wait out the storm. When you are stranded in your car for any length of time, be sure to stay hydrated and refrain from eating snow because it will lower your body temperature.
Winter Storm Safety Tips: Inside and Outside the Home
When indoors during a winter storm, remember that water pipes are subject to bursting, particularly if they are old or frozen solid. Be aware of conditions outside your home and take precautions.
Here are some things you should do when preparing for a storm:
– Check blower/vents leading outside to make sure they are not blocked by snow.
– Turn off propane tanks and other gas sources to reduce the risk of fire.
– Drain water from pipes using a faucet or bucket if an outside water source is frozen or cut off due to weather conditions.
– If you have a fireplace, wood-burning stove, or any other heating device that burns fuel, provide extra ventilation to prevent the build-up of highly combustible gases inside your home. Never burn anything larger than newspaper in your fireplace because large pieces may get stuck in the chimney flue or be ejected into the room when burned creating fuel for a potential hazard!
During a winter storm, it is especially important to keep your furnace in good working order.
Here are some tips for safe use of your heating devices:
– Keep the area surrounding your furnace clear by removing furniture, toys, and other combustibles from nearby surfaces.
– Only purchase fuel-burning appliances that have been certified as meeting Underwriters Laboratories (UL) standards. Be sure to install them according to the manufacturer’s instructions.
Winters storms bring many different types of potential dangers but parents can take the time to discuss safety with their children before, during, and after a hazardous weather event takes place. It is never too early to begin teaching our young ones about survival techniques, particularly those situations that may impede their way home or place them in danger.
Winter Storm Safety Tips for Pets
Protecting our furry friends is an essential part of ensuring everyone’s safety.
Here are some winter storm tips to keep your pets safe:
– Stay inside with your pets when possible, particularly if they are outdoor animals that are not accustomed to harsh weather conditions. Make sure they have access to water that won’t freeze. If you need to leave your pet alone at home during a winter storm event, be sure to provide him/her with plenty of food and water in case the power goes out in your house or if traveling becomes too hazardous for you or others involved in getting supplies back home safely.
– If you do take your pet outside, be sure they have an adjustable collar or harness to prevent them from slipping out of their collars as well as a leash. Make sure the animal’s paws are free of snow and salt build-up by using warm water and a towel to clean between their toes after each outdoor excursion.
Winter Storm Safety Tips for Your Car
Having a winter survival kit in your car is essential during any hazardous weather event including a major blizzard or a smaller snowstorm.
Here are some tips for keeping yourself safe while driving:
– Always keep emergency supplies in your vehicle including blankets, candles, matches/lighters, non-perishable food items, disposable heat packs (made for outdoor use only), high-calorie snacks, water, cellular phone, landline phone charger, first aid kit, and anything else you may find useful.
– Do not travel if it is unsafe to do so. If you are caught in a major storm event while driving your car, pull over to the side of the road when it is safe to do so. Avoid stopping under trees or power lines that may be weakened by accumulating snow/ice weight.
It’s important to take extra precautions when dealing with potentially hazardous weather conditions. These winter storm safety tips will help you get through the next blizzard, snow, or ice event that comes your way!
