SAN ANTONIO — San Antonians have one more night of cold weather with a hard freeze expected tonight through Monday morning. During this time it's important to take preparations of plants, pipes, pets and people.
Tonight is the time to take those necessary steps to protect your home and loved ones from the frigid cold.
Here's what you need to know:
What does a hard freeze mean? When temperatures fall below 28 degrees for several hours. This results in the loss of most plants and vegetation so remember to bring them inside or cover up to protect from freezing.
Below are some tips from the City of San Antonio:
- Wrap them up - If your pipes are exposed to the cold, wrap them up for insulation or use heat tape. You could even use fabric or newspaper to help.
- Keep it flowing - Allow a small trickle of water to run. The more faucets you keep running the better chances you keep pipes from freezing. Remember the cost of water is usually lower than fixing a broken pipe.
If your pipes do freeze
- Shut off the water immediately - Don't attempt to thaw pipes without turning off the main-shut-off valve.
- Thaw pipes with warm air - You can try melting the frozen water in the pipe by warming the air around it with a hair dryer or space heater. However, be extra cautious with space heaters and do not leave them unattended.
- Be careful turning water back on - Once pipes are thawed, slowly turn the water back on and check pipes for any cracks or leaks that might have caused the freezing.
Pets
- Bring them inside. Pets, especially cats are safer indoors.
- If you can't have your pet inside, purchase an insulated doghouse or build a protective enclosure that shields your pet from the harsh outdoor elements.
- Certain pets are more vulnerable to cold temperatures such as shorthaired dogs, very young or old dogs, and all cats.
People
- Dress in layers and keep warm.
- Check on your elderly family or neighbors.
- The Homeless Connections Hotline number is 210-207-1799.
A freeze warning is in effect for Bexar County from midnight to 10 a.m. Monday, according to the National Weather Service.
By Monday morning San Antonians can expect to wake up to temperatures in the upper 20s. Winds will be light and Monday's high temperature will be in the mid 50s.