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- Severe winter weather is expected across the country from Thursday through Saturday.
- Place your grill and generator outdoors to avoid CO poisoning.
- Sprinklers and outdoor faucets should be turned off.
AUSTIN, Texas (KXAN) – Heavy snow, ice, flooding and high winds are expected to hit large swaths of the country from Thursday through Saturday, from the Plains and Midwest to the East Coast, forecasters said. increase. A surge of Arctic air follows. Christmas weekend may be the coldest in decades.
The National Weather Service said Wednesday that about 190 million people are now receiving some kind of winter weather advisory because the storm is so large and widespread.
So, here are a few things experts say you shouldn’t have on your checklist if you’re preparing for a significant temperature drop before Christmas.
Do not bring grills or generators into your home
Carbon monoxide (CO), a colorless, odorless gas that can cause sudden illness and death, is produced from fumes from outdoor accessories such as grills and generators. Carbon monoxide poisoning is highest during severe or cold weather. Especially if the wind can knock out your power and you’re looking for alternative sources of power. Accidental CO poisoning kills at least 430 people in the United States each year, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). and 50,000 people need emergency room visits.
Common CO symptoms to look out for are headache, dizziness, weakness, nausea, vomiting, chest pain, and confusion. Replace or check the CO detector battery at least every 6 months.
Do not turn on sprinklers
Temperatures are projected to remain below freezing for 48 hours or more in many places. Water from sprinklers freezes quickly. In fact, leaving your irrigation system running will likely damage it. It is recommended to drain the pipes if possible.
Don’t let water drip from outside faucets
The spigot of the hose should be covered and de-energized to prevent the pipe from bursting.
Keep the water stop valve out of reach
It’s important to know where this valve is and make sure it’s accessible and not blocked by junk or clutter. Practice off and on (make sure it’s not rusted). This valve is very important if the water pipe freezes and the pipe bursts. This will turn off the water throughout your home.
Do not leave the garage door open
It’s important to keep it closed so your home can stay warm more efficiently. This will also protect the pipes inside.
Exception: If you drive your car in a garage to heat it, it is very important to keep the garage door open to avoid CO poisoning.
