Tips to protect pipes, keep pets safe as below-freezing temperatures are set to hit the Houston area Dec. 22-23 By Community Impact

The weather is taking a dip into chilly temperatures. Conditions like this contribute to frozen pipes.

A Dec. 15 press release from the National Weather Service warns on the night of Dec. 22 into the morning of Dec. 23 the

Houston metro will see temperatures in the near- to mid-20s, while the North Houston metro will see temperatures dip into the teens.

The NWS says to protect the 4 Ps in cold weather: people, plants, pets and pipes. To avoid frozen pipes and keep pets safe,

here is some advice from Houston Public Works, the Red Cross and the Houston Humane Society.

More than 70% of sewer overflows in Houston are caused by clogs from grease and wipes, according to a Dec. 13 Houston Public Works press release.

Public Works reminds citizens of its “Protect our Pipes” initiative to avoid sewer overflow by properly disposing of grease:

• Pour leftover fats, oils and grease into a container;

• Cool it; and

• Toss the container into the trash.

The Red Cross has the following recommendations to avoid frozen pipes:

• Keep garage doors closed if there are water supply lines in the garage.

• Open kitchen and bathroom cabinet doors to allow warmer air to circulate around the plumbing.

  Be sure to move any harmful cleaners and household chemicals up out of the reach of children.

• When the weather is very cold outside, let the cold water drip from the faucet served by exposed pipes.

  Running water through the pipe—even at a trickle—helps prevent pipes from freezing.

• Keep the thermostat set to the same temperature both during the day and at night.

  By temporarily suspending the use of lower nighttime temperatures, you may incur a higher heating bill, but you can prevent a much more costly repair job if pipes freeze and burst.

• If you will be traveling during cold weather, leave the heater on in your home, set to a temperature no lower than 55 degrees Fahrenheit.

To keep pets safe and warm this holiday season, the Houston Humane Society offers the following tips:

• Keep pets indoors: Refrain from leaving your pets outside or unattended during freezing weather.

  Additionally, do not leave your pet unattended in a vehicle during extreme temperatures.

• Keep them dry: When coming indoors, ensure all your pet’s paws and fur are nice and dry after a walk in the rain or snow.

• Designate a safe space inside: If conditions get harsh, be prepared with potty pads for pets who will have difficulty going outside during severe weather.

• Use a sweater: Pet sweaters can be as functional as they are cute. Short-haired dogs will appreciate the extra warmth of a sweater or jacket they are comfortable in.

• Provide proper shelter for outdoor pets:

  The Safe Outdoor Dogs Act is in effect and gives pet owners easy-to-understand guidelines for restraining dogs outside. A dog may not be restrained outdoors if the dog does not have adequate shelter and there is inclement weather, including rain, sleet, snow and temperatures below 32 degrees Fahrenheit. For more information on this new law, visit www.houstonhumane.org.

• Beware of car hazards: Before you take off, tap the hood of the vehicle to protect any stray cat that may have taken refuge under the car. Always clean up antifreeze leaks,

  as these are lethal to curious dogs and cats.

• Do not forget the strays: Leave extra blankets or towels you can spare outside to create a safe space for any stray furry friends to find shelter through extreme temperatures.

  
  

  
  

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  Source: www.communityimpact.com