Last week’s dip into the 20s was just a practice run for Old Man Winter here in White County.
The Old Farmers Almanac fore- sees our region in North Georgia experiencing colder than average temperatures this winter, with the possi- bility of snow and ice later in the season. The National Oceanic and Atmo- spheric Administration predicts the op- posite – warmer than average temps for our state. However, NOAA warns that Georgians can still expect periodic blasts of cold air December through February.
So whether cold weather is sustained for long periods, or comes in short bursts, residents should be prepared.
Our shaded back roads are curvy, as they wind through our ancient mountains at higher elevations. We also have numerous bridges allowing people passage over swift moving rivers like the Chattahoochee. Black ice is known to quickly form on both when the temperatures dive below freezing. Which is why our first responders tell drivers to slow down and give themselves ample travel time especially in inclement weather. They want you to reach your destination in one piece, without any mishaps.
Busted pipes in winter are an expensive mess that no one wants to deal with. Which is why homeowners, and land- lords, should make sure that any exposed plumbing in homes is wrapped and outdoor hoses are disconnected.
Snow and ice can topple trees, which in turn can bring down power lines. So having an emergency kit with flash- lights, blankets and bottled water – not to mention keeping some non-perishable food in your pantry - is a good idea.
Unfortunately, cold weather can also result in an increased risk of fires if people are struggling to stay warm. Our public safety officials advise residents to keep space heaters away from bedding and drapes, and never leave them unattended. The U.S. Fire Administration offers tips for homeowners who use fireplac- es or wood stoves during the winter:
- keep a glass or metal screen in front of your fireplace
- keep the doors of your wood stove closed unless loading or stoking the live fire
- keep anything that can burn at least three feet from your fireplace or wood stove
- do not burn paper in your fireplace or wood stove
- put the fire out before you go to sleep or leave your home
- have your chimney inspected and cleaned each year by a professional
- put ashes in a metal container with a lid and place the container outside at least 10 feet from your home.
White County residents can also be alerted to severe winter weather by signing up for CodeRED alerts. Text WHITECOALERTS to 99411 or visit bit.ly/wc-coderedsignup.
So get cozy, stay warm and be prepared.