The Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) urges Texans statewide to make preparations for winter weather.
“Significant weather threats can emerge at any time and bring the potential for heavy rains, low temperatures and freezing precipitation,” says Nim Kidd, chief of the DPS Texas Division of Emergency Management.
DPS offers the following tips for staying safe during winter weather:
Monitor local weather conditions.
- Sign up for your local emergency notification system.
- On icy roads, drive slowly, increase distance required for stopping and avoid using cruise control.
- Watch for downed trees and power lines across roads. If power is out, treat all intersections as four-way stops.
- Make sure your vehicle is properly maintained before any trip.
- Keep your gas tank full.
- Avoid traveling when sleet,
- freezing rain or snow is predicted, and monitor road conditions by visiting drivetexas.org.
Winterize your vehicle by checking the battery, windshield wipers, tire pressure, tire tread and fluid levels. Lubricate door and trunk locks to prevent freezing. Keep emergency supplies on hand.
Winterize your home by insulating outside faucets and pipes near outer walls. Make sure furnaces, heaters and fireplaces are clean, well-ventilated and in good working condition.
Visit txdps.state.tx.us for more information.
