February is one of the coldest months in our region. Though our area does not usually receive week after week of below freezing temperatures, periodic hard freezes or wintry precipitation do come our way. It is important to remember how to be prepared for winter weather during this time of year.

When temperatures start to drop below freezing, it is critical to protect the 4 P’s – people, pets, plants, and pipes. All of these are vulnerable to extreme cold. Make sure you and your family members are properly dressed in warm layers if going out in the cold, especially children and the elderly. Likewise, low temperatures also can severely affect animals, so make sure to bring in your pets so that they stay warm. A lot of the vegetation in our region is better suited for our warm climate, so make sure to cover any plants that are not suitable for freezing temperatures or bring in smaller plants. Lastly, make sure that all pipes are properly insulated, as hard freezes can cause pipes to burst, resulting in flooded homes and extremely costly repairs. You can use pipe foam or special insulation to wrap pipes, as well as layer them with towels or blankets for extra warmth. Keep in mind that if precipitation is in the forecast, you will need to use waterproof material since towels and blankets absorb the cold water and no longer protect the pipes. You can also put a hose bib cover on any outdoor faucets that are attached to your home. Taking these steps helps reduce your chances of costly repairs and broken pipes.

While we thankfully don’t have to deal with extreme cold for months on end in our area, it is still important to always keep cold weather tips in mind during the winter months when arctic cold fronts blast through our area occasionally. To be aware of the forecast and stay vigilant, follow the National Weather Service – Houston, your local Office of Emergency Management, and local weather stations. Wishing all a warm and safe winter!

Featured in Dock Line Magazine.