Wednesday, February 2, 2022
City of Plainview Encourages Public to Take Precautions, Prepare for Upcoming Winter Weather
The City of Plainview encourages residents to take pre-cautions and prepare for the upcoming winter weather this week. The National Weather Service has predicted below freezing temperatures and the possibility of snow through Friday, February 4th.
Hypothermia
With below freezing temperatures lasting for an extended time, the threat of hypothermia - abnormally low body temperature (below 95 degrees) for those exposed to the elements is possible. Signs include shivering, stiff muscles, confusion, difficulty speaking and sleepiness. If you are experiencing hypothermia symptoms, call 9-1-1 immediately.
If you know someone who is need of shelter during this time, contact the City of Plainview Police Department at 296-1182 for arrangements.
Heat your Home Safely
Home heating is the second leading cause of fires in this country. To reduce the risk of heating related fires, the Red Cross recommends these steps:
- Never use a cooking range or oven to heat your home.
- All heaters need space. Keep children, pets and items that can at least three feet away from heating equipment.
- If using a space heater, place it on a level, hard and nonflammable floor, not on rugs, carpets or near bedding or drapes. Turn off portable space heaters every time you leave the room or go to sleep.
- Never leave a fire in the fireplace unattended, and use a glass or metal fire screen to keep fire and embers in the fireplace.
The Four 4’s – People, Pets, Plant & Pipes
Checking the 4 P’s will help keep everyone safe.
- People – Wear warm clothing and check on those who may need assistance.
- Pets – Bring animals inside. Animals not able to be brought indoors must have shelter, blanket, food and water available.
- Plants – Cover plants or bring them indoors.
- Pipes – Cover pipes exposed to cold temperatures.
Winter Driving
The City of Plainview Street Department has been dispensing brine over city streets the past couple of days in anticipation of the storm. The brine will help lower freezing temperatures on the road, making travel less hazardous and melting snow and ice quicker. If you must get out during the storm, below are a few tips:
- Check road conditions.
- Travel in the day and do not travel alone.
- Stay on the main roads and avoid back road shortcuts.
- Let someone know your destination, your route, and when you expect to arrive.
- Drive cautiously and leave plenty of space between you and the car ahead of you.
- Pack a winter survival kit
During ice and snow storms, the City of Plainview emergency services response time may be longer than normal to assist with stranded vehicles - vehicles blocking traffic will be given first priority.
The City of Plainview recommends following the National Weather Service or local media for the most up-to-date weather information. For more information, visit Winter Information | Plainview, TX - Official Website (plainviewtx.org) or call the Emergency Operations Center at 806.296.1182. For emergencies, contact 9-1-1.