KCBI has compiled cold weather resources and information to help you stay informed and prepared for the upcoming winter weather in Texas. Check out the latest updates below!
As temperatures plunge below freezing, the Texas Department of Public Safety is encouraging you to take precautions, including checking your vehicle’s battery, windshield wipers, tire pressure, tire treads and fluid levels. It also recommends that you ensure door and trunk locks are properly lubricated to prevent them from freezing. You’re encouraged to have a well-stocked emergency kit with warm clothing, food, water, cell phone/battery charger and first aid items. You can find additional tips and recommendations here: DPS Shares Essential Winter Weather Safety Tips | Department of Public Safety (texas.gov).
Here is a full list of ways to prepare from the city of Dallas: Stay Safe and Prepare for Inclement Weather - Dallas City News.
The city of Fort Worth offers ways to prevent your pipes from freezing: Take these precautions with water pipes in freezing temperatures – Welcome to the City of Fort Worth (fortworthtexas.gov). The city has also created the MyFW App through which you can report any weather-related issues. You can find a QR code to download it here: Report any weather-related issues on the MyFW App – Welcome to the City of Fort Worth (fortworthtexas.gov).
Please join in praying with us for those who need shelter. In Dallas, if you or someone you know needs a place to stay, the city has opened a shelter inside Fair Park’s Grand Place to offer meals and temporary lodging. It has also activated temporary shelters: Office of Homeless Solutions Inclement Weather Activation (dallascityhall.com).
Fort Worth has also activated temporary shelters: Cold weather resources and shelters for the homeless – Welcome to the City of Fort Worth (fortworthtexas.gov).
If you’d like to volunteer to assist at city shelters or partner organizations, there is a link at Office of Homeless Solutions Inclement Weather Activation (dallascityhall.com). For partner organizations, all volunteers must register: Register Online at dal.city/AustinStreetRegister and may Sign Up for a Volunteer Shift Online at dal.city/AustinStreetRegister-Jan2025. Partners including Our Calling will be offering assistance to those who have no place to go. If you’d like to help, sign up to volunteer: Volunteer | OurCalling.
If your pets need shelter, The Presbyterian Night Shelter in Fort Worth accepts dogs with shot records. When the regular emergency shelters are full, the Emergency Overflow Overnight Shelter, also in Fort Worth, accepts dogs and cats. No shot records required. No other shelter locations in Fort Worth accept pets, with the exception of service animals. Crates are available for transport via Trinity Metro to the Emergency Overflow Overnight Shelter. Pets must be on a leash (leashes will be available) and must remain in the crate while at the shelter. Pet owners are required to maintain control of their pets, clean up after them and take them outside when necessary.
ERCOT has issued a weather watch: ERCOT Issues Weather Watch. Electricity use is expected to be higher, but it sounds like there is no danger of grid failure.
Heat your Home Safely
To reduce the risk of heating-related fires, consider the following safety tips:
- Keep heaters away from children, pets, and flammable materials.
- Place space heaters on a level, nonflammable surface.
- Never leave a fire in the fireplace unattended.
- Do not use cooking ranges or ovens for heating.
- Turn off portable space heaters when not in use.
Staying Safe During Winter Weather
Remember to stay safe and look out for one another during winter weather:
- Dress warmly in layers, wear a hat, mittens, and waterproof boots.
- Be cautious when performing strenuous tasks in cold temperatures.
- Check on your neighbors, especially those who are elderly, have disabilities, or are children.
- Ensure your pets have shelter and access to unfrozen water.
- Watch for signs of hypothermia and frostbite.