A Texan’s Guide for How to Prepare for a Freeze

Dec 20, 2022

 

This winter, there is always a possibility for a freeze that is not typical for the area where they live. This leaves many people wondering, how does one prepare for a freeze in Texas? Here are some helpful tips and tricks that will help you feel confident to “weather” the potential for a freeze.

Do you live in an apartment? Check out our article on how to prepare your apartment for a winter storm.

Create an emergency kit

Now is the time to make sure you have water, non-perishable food such as canned vegetables, hand sanitizer, batteries, flashlights, a first aid kit and a battery pack for your cell phone. These are all good things to have on-hand any time of the year, so you might want to consider purchasing these items when they are not high in demand and stash them away to be prepared once you need them. You also want to make sure your prescription medication is adequately filled. A more extensive list of emergency supplies can be found here.

Stay warm and entertained

Have lots of blankets and socks to layer up should the temperature in your home unexpectedly drop. You might also need to conserve your cell phone power, so using your phone for entertainment might not be an option. If you have other devices, like a tablet, make sure those are charged so you are not unnecessarily draining your cell phone. Some alternatives to playing on your phone include using a portable reading light, a deck of cards, playing a board game or working on a puzzle. If you have children, you could even put all those blankets to use by rearranging sofa cushions and creating an old-fashioned fort to keep your mind off the weather.

Cover your outdoor plants and bring your pets inside

Your plants and pets need your help to prepare for a freeze in Texas. To cover your plants, things you already have in your home such as sheets, towels, comforters or other heavier blankets would work just fine.

It is important to uncover the plants after the freeze is over, so the plants receive the warm and sunlight they need to survive. You also don’t want condensation to build up under the blankets, which would lead to a re-freeze and damage the plants.

Get out a pen and paper to keep important numbers handy

In the event of a freeze, or any other emergent weather event, you will want to be able to call your loved ones and other businesses for help if needed. Write down the numbers of everyone you might want to call.

In the event of a power outage, you will also want to let your energy company know. Regardless of your electricity provider, we have the numbers here for the company to call in your area.

It’s always best to be prepared for any weather event, but hopefully this helps you in the event a freeze hit your area.