How to Keep Your Home Safe and Cozy During Austin's Surprise Snow Days

Austin, Texas, known for its warm climate, has recently started experiencing surprising snow days. With these weather changes becoming unpredictable, it's important for residents to be prepared. Snow and freezing temperatures present unique challenges. From safeguarding your property to ensuring a comfortable interior, this guide is all about providing peace of mind when Austin gets chilly.

Understanding Austin's Winter Weather

Over the past few years, Austin has seen more frequent winter storms. Climate change is a big factor in this shift. Residents need to adapt their emergency plans to include the possibility of snow and ice. Being prepared can mean the difference between a cozy snow day and a stressful one.

Planning Ahead: Get Ready Before Winter Hits

Timing Is Key

Preparation should start before the cold sets in. The earlier, the better. Start by inspecting your home for any repairs or maintenance needs. This includes checking your heating system, clearing gutters, and trimming back any problematic branches.

Essential Supplies

Having emergency supplies on hand is crucial. This includes food, water, medications, and warm clothing for at least a week. For pets, make sure you have enough food and any necessary medicines. Plan for your car, too, with essentials like an ice scraper, blankets, and a car charger for your phone.

Emergency Resources

Austin provides a range of resources to help residents prepare. These include preparedness guides, checklists, and monthly events where you can meet emergency professionals. Make sure to familiarize yourself with these resources to be better equipped.

Keeping the Inside of Your Luxury Home Cozy

Manage Your Home's Temperature

Keep your thermostat set to at least 65 degrees. This prevents the walls and pipes from freezing. It's also smart to know where your main water shutoff is located. In extreme cold, let your faucets drip slightly to keep water moving and prevent freezing.

Equip Your Home for Winter

Ensure your fireplaces and heaters are working properly. If you have a fireplace, close the flue when not in use to keep the warm air inside. Double-check that electric heaters have an automatic shut-off feature to avoid accidents.

Protect Pipes from Freezing

Cold weather can cause pipes to burst, leading to significant damage. Open cabinets under sinks to let warm air circulate around pipes. Insulate outdoor faucets and pipes, and if freezing persists, keep a trickle of water running through the taps.

Preparing the Exterior of Your Luxury Home

Keep Walkways Safe

It's important to keep sidewalks and driveways clear of snow and ice. Using a broom or snow shovel can prevent slippery surfaces and potential accidents. If you have a swimming pool, run the pump during the night to prevent freezing.

Safeguard Outdoor Structures

Check your roof, gutters, and downspouts to ensure they're clear of debris. This prevents dams and allows melted snow to drain properly. If you have a garage, keep the door closed to retain heat inside your home.

Protect Landscaping

Bring potted plants indoors if possible. For those that can't be moved, cover them to protect them from the freeze. It's also wise to water plants before a freeze, as moist soil holds heat better than dry soil.

Staying Informed and Connected

Tune Into Alerts

Sign up for emergency notifications like Warn Central Texas to stay informed about weather changes. The Ready Central Texas app is another great tool for receiving updates. It's important to have these on hand to avoid surprises.

Prepare for Power Outages

Power outages can occur during severe winter storms. Unplug appliances and keep lights off to avoid a power surge when electricity is restored. Using a flashlight or battery-powered lamp is safer than candles.

Communication Plan

Discuss an emergency plan with family or neighbors, especially if someone has a medical condition or disability. Have a plan in place for how to communicate if phones or internet go down.

Safety Beyond the Home

Drive Safe in Winter

Try to avoid driving during severe conditions if possible. If you must drive, check your vehicle's tires, battery, and fluids. Keep a full gas tank and never leave pets, elderly, or children in the car unattended.

Understand Electrical Safety

Only use heaters that have been certified for indoor use. Avoid using a gas oven to heat your home as it poses a fire risk. If you notice downed power lines, report them immediately to prevent accidents.

Assisting Others

Help neighbors prepare, especially those who may be elderly or have mobility issues. Sharing resources and knowledge can make your whole community safer.

Conclusion

By being proactive and prepared, residents in Austin can make the most of unexpected snow days. Protecting your home doesn't have to be daunting. With proper planning, you can ensure your home stays safe and cozy. Remember to keep informed, stay connected, and lend a hand to others during these chilly times. Winter in Austin may be surprising, but with these tips, your home will be ready for any winter weather that comes its way.

Information sourced from AustinTexas.gov, Fox 7 Austin, KUT News, KVUE ABC