ALERT: Harris and Montgomery Counties Residents Should Prepare for Freezing Temperatures
Staying warm and safe can be a challenge when winter temperature drop and stay significantly below normal for any sustained period of time. LSCS reminds the community to take precautions to protect life and property during the winter weather, including checking on elderly, taking care of pets and livestock, protecting plants and exposed plumbing.
Here are some tips for dealing with freezing temperatures (remember the four "P's"):
Protect People
- Keep warm, stay inside if possible.
- If you need to go out, dress in layers and wear hats, gloves and an appropriate coat.
- Avoid overexertion, as cold weather puts added strain on your body.
- Observe heater safety:
- Never place a space heater on top of furniture or near water.
- Keep heat sources at least 3 feet away from furniture and drapes.
- Never leave children unattended near a space heater.
Protect Pets
- Bring pets inside, and move other animals or livestock to sheltered areas.
- Keep adequate food and water available.
Protect Pipes
- Disconnect outdoor hoses, drain and store in protected area.
- Wrap exposed faucets and pipes - including those outside the house or in unheated crawl spaces, attics, garages and other areas.
Protect Plants
- Bring potted plants inside or store in garage near interior wall to provide extra warmth and protection from wind.
- For cold-sensitive outdoor plants, put down extra mulch and consider covering with a cloth fabric of some kind to shield the plants from wind and frost.
Protect yourself from carbon monoxide (CO) poisoning by installing a battery-operated CO detector and never using generators, grills, camp stoves, or similar devices indoors.
It is also recommended that you prepare your car for winter. Have your car serviced and add antifreeze as needed.
Finally, keep emergency supplies at hand and stay informed about the weather conditions in our area by visiting our website http://www.hcoem.org/.
(Source: Harris County Office of Emergency Management)
ADVISORY: Burn Ban in Effect for the Greater Houston Area
Dear Lone Star College System Community,
This information is based on information provided by the Texas Governor's Division of Emergency Management, the National Weather Service, and the Texas Forest Service. The greater Houston area is experiencing moderate to severe drought conditions and fuel dryness.
Harris and Montgomery Counties have issued a burn ban.This burn ban is now in effect for Harris County and starting tomorrow, Wednesday, June 24, in Montgomery County.
What Does This Mean?
Under the conditions of the ban, outdoor burning is allowed in an enclosure that does not allow the escape of flames, embers, or sparks. Backyard cook-outs and barbeques are also allowed, as is welding and other "hot work" performed in accordance with International Fire Code requirements.
Fire officials are stressing the importance of education and prevention first, however violation of the restrictions is a Class C Misdemeanor punishable by a fine of up to $500. This applies to both Harris and Montgomery counties. In addition, any person who starts a fire that causes damage to property without the consent of the owner may be charged with Reckless Damage or Destruction, a Class C misdemeanor, or Arson, a felony.
What About Fireworks?
Harris County Judge Ed Emmett has issued a county disaster declaration today, banning the sale and use of all stick rockets and missiles with fins within Harris County. The Montgomery County Fire Marshal’s Office has also issued an order restricting the sale and use of certain aerial fireworks known for their increased risk of starting fires. These restrictions are now in effect. These restrictions do not affect professional public fireworks displays.
Before purchasing or using fireworks of any kind in the greater Houston area, we encourage you to consult with your local fire department for guidance.
Stay Informed…Stay Safe!