National Weather Service Raw Text Product

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Public Information Statement
National Weather Service Charleston SC
542 PM EST Fri Dec 23 2022

...BITTERLY COLD WEATHER TONIGHT AND THROUGH THE WEEKEND...
...COLD WEATHER PREPAREDNESS AND SAFETY INFORMATION...

The key to any preparedness and safety actions is to act well
before any problems occur.

Try to stay inside as much as possible. If you must be outside,
dress appropriately for the cold weather. Dress in layered
clothing, with a hat, scarf, and mittens or gloves.

...Protecting Pipes From Freezing...

Remove and drain outdoor hoses and store indoors. If possible,
close any valves that supply outdoor hose bibs, then open and
drain remaining water from outdoor values. Check any other areas 
where pipes could be exposed to the cold, and cover or insulate 
those pipes if possible. Let at least one faucet drip inside your 
home tonight, which will help prevent ice from building up in the 
pipes. Open up the cabinet doors underneath all sinks to allow for
warmer air to circulate inside.

...Other Areas Around the Home...

Keep garage doors closed, especially if there are water supply
lines located in the garage. Keep your thermostat set at the same
temperature during the day and the night, helping to maintain
sufficiently warm temperatures inside the home, and lowering the
threat for pipes to freeze. If you are going away, keep your
thermostat set no lower than 55 degrees.

...Plants and Pets...

If there are any plants outside that will be susceptible to the
cold weather, we suggest covering them or if possible bringing
them inside.

Do not forget about your pets. If you can, bring them inside at
night. If this is not possible, make sure they will have plenty
of warmth such as blankets or other coverings to remain warm.
Ensure that they have plenty of unfrozen drinking water.

...Those Susceptible to the Cold...

Check on the elderly and others such as young children and those
with illnesses that may be more susceptible to very cold
temperatures. Make sure they have adequate heating and shelter.

...Portable Heating Devices...

If using heating devices such as an electric space heater, make
sure it is is good working order, is never left unattended, and
is not located near any flammable materials. Avoid using any
heating devices that use an open flame or combustible materials.

For additional cold weather safety and preparedness information,
please visit the National Weather Service in Charleston at:

www.weather.gov/chs.

$$