How to Prepare Your Home, Family, Pets, and Vehicle for Freezing Weather in Houston
With Houston's first major cold front bringing freezing temperatures this week, it’s important to prepare your home, family, pets, and vehicle for the cold weather ahead. Freezing temperatures can catch many Houston residents off guard, but with a little planning, you can ensure your loved ones and property stay safe and comfortable. Here’s your guide to winterizing your home and lifestyle for the chilly conditions.
1. Winterizing Your Home: Protect Your Property from the Cold
Even though Houston doesn’t see extreme winter weather often, freezing temperatures can still cause damage to your home. Here are key steps to winterize your home and keep the cold out:
-
Protect Pipes from Freezing: One of the biggest threats during a cold snap is frozen pipes. Insulate outdoor pipes or pipes in unheated areas like attics and garages. You can also let faucets drip slowly to prevent freezing.
-
Seal Gaps and Drafts: Check windows and doors for drafts and use weatherstripping or caulk to seal them. This will keep the cold air out and help maintain indoor warmth, reducing heating costs.
-
Keep Your Heating System in Check: Before temperatures drop, make sure your heating system is working properly. Change filters and schedule a maintenance check if needed. Stock up on blankets or warm clothing in case of heating system failure.
-
Cover Outdoor Faucets: Use foam faucet covers to protect outdoor faucets from freezing. In some cases, it’s helpful to turn off the water supply to exterior spigots during freezing weather.
-
Stock Up for Power Outages: Freezing weather can cause power outages, so make sure you have essentials like bottled water, canned goods, and flashlights on hand. Don’t forget extra batteries for your phone and other devices. Check out this guide published by My Neighborhood News on preparing for power outages, including top-rated product suggestions to keep you and your loved ones safe and comfortable during power outages.
Mobile Sidebar Ad
2. Preparing Your Family for Freezing Temperatures
When the weather turns cold, it’s crucial to keep your family warm and safe. Here are tips to help your family stay cozy during Houston’s freezing weather:
-
Dress in Layers: Keep your family warm by dressing in layers. Wear thermal shirts, sweaters, scarves, hats, and gloves. Don’t forget warm socks and waterproof boots if you’re heading outside.
-
Limit Time Outdoors: Although outdoor play is important, limit exposure to freezing temperatures. If your kids have to go outside, ensure they are bundled up properly to prevent frostbite and hypothermia.
-
Stay Active Indoors: Encourage indoor activities like crafts, board games, or movies to keep everyone entertained and warm. Physical activity can help generate body heat and keep spirits high.
-
Prepare for Holiday Travel: If you’re traveling during the holidays, check weather forecasts regularly. Prepare your vehicle, pack extra blankets, and ensure that you have essential items in case of delays or road closures.
3. Pet Safety in Freezing Weather
Pets, especially those accustomed to Houston’s warmer climate, are vulnerable in freezing temperatures. Protect your furry friends with these winter care tips:
-
Bring Pets Inside: Avoid leaving pets outside during freezing temperatures. If your pet is used to being outdoors, bring them inside or make sure they have access to a warm shelter with insulation to protect them from the cold.
-
Outdoor Pet Protection: If you can’t bring your pets indoors, provide a warm, dry, and insulated shelter. Ensure their food and water bowls don’t freeze, and replace the water regularly.
-
Check Their Paws: Ice, salt, and snow can irritate your pet's paws. Wipe their paws clean after walks to prevent injury. If necessary, use pet booties to protect their feet from the cold.
-
Winter Gear for Pets: Some pets may need additional warmth, especially smaller or short-haired breeds. Consider investing in pet sweaters or jackets to keep them comfortable.
Mobile Sidebar Ad
4. Preparing Your Vehicle for Freezing Temperatures
Houston residents may not need to worry about snow, but freezing temperatures can still pose risks for your vehicle. Here’s how to winterize your car for cold weather:
-
Check Tire Pressure: Cold temperatures can cause tire pressure to drop, so make sure your tires are properly inflated. This is crucial for maintaining traction and preventing blowouts in freezing conditions.
-
Test the Battery: Cold weather can shorten the life of your car battery. Have it tested to make sure it’s in good condition. If it’s old or showing signs of weakness, consider replacing it before you get caught in a cold snap.
-
Fill Up Your Gas Tank: Keep your gas tank at least half full during freezing weather to prevent fuel lines from freezing and to avoid running out of gas in an emergency.
-
Prepare Your Windshield Wipers: Ensure your wiper blades are in good condition, and use a windshield washer fluid that is rated for freezing temperatures. Keep extra fluid on hand in case it’s needed during the cold snap.
-
Emergency Kit for Your Car: Prepare an emergency kit with essentials like blankets, bottled water, non-perishable snacks, a flashlight, jumper cables, and basic car repair tools. This is especially important if you live in an area prone to icy roads.
5. Stay Informed About the Weather
Houston's weather can change quickly, so staying informed is key to being prepared. Keep an eye on local weather forecasts, especially when a cold front is expected to arrive. Set up weather alerts on your phone or listen to local news broadcasts to get updates on freezing temperatures, potential ice on the roads, or power outages.
(Source: National Weather Service)Freezing weather in Houston may be brief, but the effects can be significant. By taking these proactive steps to protect your home, family, pets, and vehicle, you’ll be ready to face the cold with confidence. Stay warm, stay safe, and enjoy the winter season!
Tiffany Krenek has been on the My Neighborhood News team since August 2021. She is passionate about curating and sharing content that enriches the lives of our readers in a personal, meaningful way. A loving mother and wife, Tiffany and her family live in the West Houston/Cypress region.
