The first truly cold weather of fall is finally on its way, with a cold front bringing much cooler temperatures to the area.
The National Weather Service has issued a Freeze Warning for Ouachita County from 12:00 midnight until 9:00 a.m. Tuesday. Lows in the upper 20s and lower 30s are expected through Friday morning.
Remember: People, pets, pipes, and plants.
With the arrival of colder temperatures, be sure to check on people who may not have adequate heating. Provide warm locations for outside pets to stay. Wrap or drain unprotected plumbing, including sprinkler systems and pools. And protect plants, crops, or other sensitive vegetation.
A Freeze Warning is issued when significant, widespread freezing temperatures are expected for the first time in the fall season.
Be sure to also check the following items to protect yourself, your family, and your property:
- Inspect your furnace, fireplace, and space heater to make sure they are working properly. If there is any doubt, contact a professional to check and make any needed repairs.
- If you have any gas appliances, or a wood-burning stove or fireplace, be sure to have a working carbon monoxide alarm.
- At a minimum, have a working smoke alarm in every bedroom and outside each sleeping area.
- Test both your smoke alarm and carbon monoxide alarm to make sure they function properly!
- Keep at least a three-foot area clear around fireplaces and heaters to avoid setting fire to flammable materials.
Bundle up, and stay warm and safe this week!