Temperatures are forecast to plummet over the weekend, and the City of Lubbock is encouraging citizens to prepare for this extreme cold.
Using unsafe heating devices indoors can cause carbon monoxide poisoning. Heaters not meant for indoor use include portable gasoline heaters, propane heaters, and charcoal heaters. Lubbock Fire Rescue encourages residents to have a carbon monoxide detector in their homes and to check the batteries regularly. The department offers free carbon monoxide testing for residents by calling (806) 775-2632.
If you have to be outside, make sure to dress appropriately. To prepare yourself, it is recommended that you dress in layers, cover any exposed skin, and limit your time outside during extreme cold.
Don’t forget about your pets. Lubbock Animal Services reminds owners to bring their pets indoors when possible. If that is not possible, make sure to provide shelter and warm bedding. Also, make sure to check your pet’s water dish frequently to make certain it is not frozen.
To prevent frozen pipes, it is recommended that you insulate all accessible pipes, and when extreme cold is predicted, let faucets drip to prevent freezing of the water inside the pipe. For pipes located adjacent to exterior walls or within base cabinets, it is recommended that you leave the cabinet doors open or use a fan to increase warm circulation around the pipes.
For more cold weather preparedness tips, visit the Winter Weather Resource Guide at mylubbock.us.
(Press release from City of Lubbock)