Severe Weather Preparedness
The best time to prepare for disaster is before it happens.
Winter weather in Houston may involve extreme cold temperatures, snow, ice, sleet, or freezing rain, which may cause impacts to life, property, and infrastructure.
During periods of extreme cold and/or winter weather, remember to protect the Four P’s: People, Pets, Pipes, and Plants.
- People should dress warmly and in layers. Check on family, friends, and neighbors who may be susceptible to the cold weather and/or don’t have access to housing and heating, including individuals with access and functional needs. The Coalition for the Homeless coordinates information for partner agencies and the general public and maintains an updated list of those resources for individuals who may be experiencing homelessness.
- Pets should be brought indoors or provided with a warm place to sleep. Under the Safe Outdoor Dog Act, a dog may not be restrained outdoors if the dog does not have adequate shelter in inclement weather. If you see a pet that is being left unattended in dangerous weather conditions for an extended period, please report it to the Harris County Animal Cruelty Taskforce at 832-927-PAWS. Snow and ice can burn your pet’s sensitive paw pads. Make sure you wipe down your pet’s feet, legs, and belly as soon as you are inside. For more on pet safety during the winter season, visit BARC. To report animal cruelty online, visit the Harris County Animal Cruelty Taskforce.
- Pipes that run outside or under a house should be wrapped in pipe insulation to avoid cracks due to water freezing in them. Open kitchen and bathroom cabinets under your sinks to allow heat to enter them.
- Plants may need to be covered or brought inside to avoid frost damage.
Emergency Preparation Kit
- Flashlights
- Batteries
- Bottled Water (5-7 days)
- Non-Perishable Food (5-7 days)
- Fully Charged Cell Phone
- Full Tank of Gas
- Copies of Important Docs
- First Aid Supplies & Meds
- Personal Hygiene Supplies
- Pet Supplies
- Change of Clothes and Bedding
- Masks and Hand Sanitizer
- Cash
HEATER SAFETY:
- Never overload outlets or breakers.
- Don’t use extension cords for the heater. If the cord is hot to the touch, turn off the heater and unplug it.
- Electric heaters permanently installed in the wall or ceiling should have lint and dust removed regularly. Lint and dust will burn!
- Check the Houston Fire Department for additional information on safely using space heaters.
WINTER PREPARATIONS:
- Listen to local officials and register for AlertHouston to stay informed.
- Have emergency supplies in place at home, at work, and in the car (blankets, water, extra clothing, first-aid kit, extra cell-phone charger, etc.)
- Visit the Houston TranStar Map to check for ice on roadways. Do NOT travel when there is significant ice on the roads.
- Ensure your home is properly heated. Have a backup generator and practice generator safety.
- Use a carbon monoxide alarm, especially if using alternative heating devices.
- People with certain disabilities may be more vulnerable to power outages. Have a backup plan such as extra blankets and a portable heater, if safe.
- Ensure there are no risks like icy walkways, which can lead to falls.
- For weather safety information for Deaf and Hard of Hearing, visit the National Weather Service.
Helpful Phone Numbers
For all life-threatening emergencies: 9-1-1
- For non-life-threatening rescues call:
- City of Houston 3-1-1
- Evacuation Assistance 2-1-1
- Coast Guard 281-464-4851 or your Local Fire Dept.
- Harris Co. Emergency Management: 713-881-3100
- Harris Co. Sheriff’s Office Non-Emergency: 713-221-6000
