Cold Weather Information

Stay Safe & Warm During Cold Weather in Opelousas

Helpful Tips!

Protect Your Home:

How to Conserve Water During Cold Weather: Tips to Prevent Your Pipes from Freezing

As winter sets in and temperatures drop, the risk of your pipes freezing increases significantly. Not only can frozen pipes disrupt water supply, but they can also burst, causing significant damage and costly repairs. However, with proper precautions, you can minimize the risk and conserve water in the process. Here’s a handy guide to help you protect your home’s plumbing this winter:

Protect Indoor Faucets

One of the simplest preventive measures is to keep your indoor faucets safe. You should:

• Open cabinet doors under sinks, especially those on exterior walls, to let warm air circulate around the plumbing.
• Remove any hazardous chemicals or cleaners from these cabinets to ensure children and pets remain safe during these temporary adjustments.

Drip Only if Needed

It’s a common misconception that you should always let faucets drip during cold weather. However, this should only be considered when there’s a high risk of freezing. Here’s how to do it right:

• Only allow a drip from one cold-water faucet when the weather forecast predicts significant temperature drops below freezing.
• Select the faucet that is farthest from your main shutoff valve to maximize the effectiveness of the dripping since it ensures the water flows through most of the system.
• Capture the dripping water in a container for later use, such as watering household plants or cleaning, to avoid wastage.

Home Insulation

Well-insulated homes, especially those built on slabs, typically do not require faucets to drip, even in freezing temperatures. Proper insulation keeps the environment around your pipes warm enough to prevent freezing.

When to Drip

Begin the drip only when the temperature is forecasted to drop below freezing. Keep an eye on the weather reports and start the drip preemptively to ensure your pipes remain safe.

Avoid Excessive Water Use

In times of potential freezing, it’s wise to conserve water:

• Postpone water-intensive activities like laundry or running the dishwasher until the weather warms up.
• This not only conserves water but reduces the strain on your home’s plumbing system.

Conclusion

Taking these steps can help minimize the risk of freezing pipes and help conserve water during the winter months. Remember, a little prevention now can save a lot of inconvenience and expense later. Stay warm, stay safe, and keep your plumbing healthy this winter!

Stay Warm Indoors:

• • • Dress in layers and wear warm clothing.
    • Close off unused rooms to conserve heat.
    • Use blankets and throws to stay cozy.
    • If using a space heater, ensure it is placed on a level, non-flammable surface and keep it at least 3 feet away from anything flammable. Always plug directly into a wall outlet, do not use an extension cord or power strip.

Stay Safe Outdoors:

• Limit Exposure: Minimize time outdoors and avoid prolonged exposure to cold temperatures.
• Drive Carefully: Slow down and be extra cautious on icy roads. Watch for black ice, which can be difficult to see.
• Protect Your Plants: Cover or bring sensitive plants indoors.

Care for Your Pets:

• Bring Pets Inside: If possible, bring pets indoors during cold weather.
• Provide Shelter: If pets must stay outdoors, ensure they have adequate shelter with warm bedding and access to unfrozen water.

Check on Your Neighbors:

• Offer Assistance: Check on elderly neighbors, those with disabilities, and those who may need assistance. Offer to help with errands or chores.

Warming Shelter Information:

St. Landry Parish Government, with the support of the City of Opelousas, opens a warming shelter during periods of extreme cold weather.

Warming Shelter Location:

• Former Indian Hills Country Club
• 1141 E Prudhomme Street, Opelousas
  • The Warming Shelter is open for the current weather event:
    St. Landry Parish Government will be opening a warming shelter tonight at 5:00 pm, February 19, 2025 and will remain open until Friday, February 21, 2025 at noon.
    Residents are encouraged to bring pillows, blankets, personal hygiene products, medications and any other essentials needed for the night.
    If you have any questions, contact our main office at (337) 948-3688.

Important Notes for the Warming Shelter:

• Transportation: A bus may be available to transport individuals to the shelter. Please call (337) 948-3688 for assistance.
• What to Bring: Meals may not be provided. Please bring your own food, blankets, pillows, and any other necessary items.
• Pets: Pets are typically welcome at the shelter.
• Space may be limited.

Stay Informed:

• Monitor local news and weather reports for updates on weather conditions and shelter availability.
• Follow the City of Opelousas on Facebook for the latest information and announcements.
• Call (337) 948-3688 for general information and assistance.

The City of Opelousas is committed to the safety and well-being of our residents. Please take these precautions seriously and stay warm this winter.