Winter Storm Alert: Be Prepared to Ride Out the Cold
As a winter storm is expected to sweep through the region this weekend, experts are urging residents to take steps to prepare their homes and communities for the harsh weather conditions. "It's better to overprepare than not to prepare at all," says Cy-Fair Fire Lt. Eddy Cruz, who advises homeowners to take proactive measures to protect themselves and their loved ones.
First and foremost, homeowners need to winterize their pipes to prevent them from freezing. This means wrapping exterior pipes and opening cabinets to provide heat to interior plumbing. It's also essential to know where the shutoff valves are located, so that in case of a leak, you can shut off the water supply quickly.
When using space heaters or generators, Cruz emphasizes the importance of taking safety precautions. Keep them at least 20 feet away from flammable materials, and ensure that extension cords are in good condition with no cuts or frays. Regularly check your carbon monoxide detector to make sure it has new batteries and is working properly.
Fires can be a significant risk during winter storms, so having a fire extinguisher handy and ensuring that your smoke detector is functioning correctly is crucial. Additionally, Cruz advises homeowners to have a plan in place in case of an emergency, including knowing the nearest shelter and having important phone numbers readily available.
In terms of vehicles, it's essential to take precautions to prevent damage from freezing temperatures. Keep your gas tank full, check tire pressure, and carry jumper cables and other essentials in case you become stranded.
Perhaps most importantly, Cruz stresses the importance of checking on your neighbors, especially those who may be elderly or disabled. "Sometimes we get so caught up in prepping our own homes that we tend to forget about people that are in need," he says. By taking a few extra minutes to check on those around you, you can help ensure their safety and well-being during the winter storm.
By following these simple steps, residents can significantly reduce the risks associated with winter storms and stay safe until the weather passes.
As a winter storm is expected to sweep through the region this weekend, experts are urging residents to take steps to prepare their homes and communities for the harsh weather conditions. "It's better to overprepare than not to prepare at all," says Cy-Fair Fire Lt. Eddy Cruz, who advises homeowners to take proactive measures to protect themselves and their loved ones.
First and foremost, homeowners need to winterize their pipes to prevent them from freezing. This means wrapping exterior pipes and opening cabinets to provide heat to interior plumbing. It's also essential to know where the shutoff valves are located, so that in case of a leak, you can shut off the water supply quickly.
When using space heaters or generators, Cruz emphasizes the importance of taking safety precautions. Keep them at least 20 feet away from flammable materials, and ensure that extension cords are in good condition with no cuts or frays. Regularly check your carbon monoxide detector to make sure it has new batteries and is working properly.
Fires can be a significant risk during winter storms, so having a fire extinguisher handy and ensuring that your smoke detector is functioning correctly is crucial. Additionally, Cruz advises homeowners to have a plan in place in case of an emergency, including knowing the nearest shelter and having important phone numbers readily available.
In terms of vehicles, it's essential to take precautions to prevent damage from freezing temperatures. Keep your gas tank full, check tire pressure, and carry jumper cables and other essentials in case you become stranded.
Perhaps most importantly, Cruz stresses the importance of checking on your neighbors, especially those who may be elderly or disabled. "Sometimes we get so caught up in prepping our own homes that we tend to forget about people that are in need," he says. By taking a few extra minutes to check on those around you, you can help ensure their safety and well-being during the winter storm.
By following these simple steps, residents can significantly reduce the risks associated with winter storms and stay safe until the weather passes.
. It's easy to get caught up in prepping for ourselves during a winter storm, but we shouldn't forget about those who might be more vulnerable. I also appreciate his advice on winterizing pipes and taking safety precautions with space heaters and generators - it's always better to err on the side of caution when it comes to our homes and loved ones 
️. And let's not forget to check those carbon monoxide detectors regularly! 
like, who doesn't love a good excuse to stock up on snacks and batteries anyway? And can we talk about how unnecessary it is to have a plan in place just in case? Like, what's the worst that could happen, right? We'll all just hunker down and wait for spring or something... 
I mean, I was skeptical at first but now I'm hooked on those crispy fries without all the extra calories. And have you ever noticed how some apps are way more fun to use than others? Like, I spent an hour playing that one game where you just tap on stuff and it's like meditation for me 
As we prepare our homes and communities for the harsh weather conditions, it's essential to acknowledge the importance of neighborly love and compassion... Many of us get caught up in our own preparations, but it's the small acts of kindness that can make all the difference for those around us... Carrying out a simple check-in with our elderly or disabled neighbors can be a lifesaver... Moreover, being proactive about winterizing our pipes and taking safety precautions can greatly reduce the risks associated with these storms... It's a great opportunity to practice our values of community and preparedness...
. I mean, pipes freezing can be a total disaster if you're not ready for it. And don't even get me started on space heaters - safety first, guys! 
Make sure you've got those detectors checked and your fire extinguisher isn't expired. It's also super thoughtful to check on your neighbors, especially the elderly or disabled. We should all be looking out for each other during this storm 
, people need to get serious about winterizing their pipes already! I mean, it's just basic prep, but some folks still don't know where their shutoff valves are lol. And for real tho, having a plan in place in case of an emergency is so important - I got friends who just wing it and hope for the best during storms 
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. And what's up with space heaters? Make sure you got those safety precautions in check or you'll be sleeping w/ the fishes 
. Fire extinguishers and smoke detectors are a no brainer, but still... why do we need reminders? 
. Check on your neighbors tho, especially the elderly 
. We're all in this together... sorta 
.