How to prepare for freeze in Texas

As you plan for a potential freeze in Texas, here are some key steps you can take to prepare your home, car, and yourself:

Before the freeze:

Home:

• Seal air leaks: Check windows, doors, and other openings for drafts and seal them with caulk or weatherstripping. This will help prevent heat loss and reduce your energy bills.
• Insulate exposed pipes: Wrap exposed pipes with insulation or heat tape to prevent freezing. Pay particular attention to pipes in crawl spaces, attics, and exterior walls.
• Disconnect garden hoses: Drain and disconnect hoses from outdoor spigots to prevent them from freezing and cracking.
• Protect faucets: Cover outdoor faucets with insulated covers to prevent freezing.
• Check your heating system: Have your furnace or other heating system serviced to ensure it's in good working order and ready for cold weather. Consider stocking up on furnace filters and any necessary replacement parts.
• Stock up on essentials: Gather enough non-perishable food, water (at least one gallon per person per day for three days), medications, pet supplies, and other necessities to last several days in case you get stuck at home due to power outages or road closures.
• Prepare for power outages: Have flashlights, batteries, a battery-powered radio, and a backup power source like a generator on hand. Ensure your generator is properly installed and operated according to safety guidelines.

Car:

• Get a winter checkup: Have your car serviced to ensure fluids are topped up, tires are properly inflated, and the battery is in good condition. Consider switching to winter tires if you live in an area that gets significant snowfall.
• Prepare an emergency kit: Include items like jumper cables, a flashlight, blankets, flares, a first-aid kit, non-perishable snacks, and bottled water in your car in case of emergencies on the road.
• Fill up your gas tank: Having a full tank will help you stay warm if you get stranded.

Yourself:

• Stay informed: Monitor weather reports closely and follow instructions from local authorities. Sign up for emergency alerts in your area.
• Dress warmly: Wear layers of clothing made from moisture-wicking materials like wool or fleece. Don't forget gloves, a hat, and a scarf.
• Prepare for power outages: Have warm blankets, sleeping bags, and extra clothing on hand in case you lose power.

Additional resources:

• Texas Division of Emergency Management: <invalid URL removed>: <invalid URL removed>
• National Weather Service: https://www.weather.gov/: https://www.weather.gov/
• Ready.gov: https://www.ready.gov/: https://www.ready.gov/

Remember, it's always better to be overprepared than underprepared. By taking the time to prepare for the freeze, you can help keep yourself, your family, and your property safe and warm.

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