Residents urged to make preparations for freezing temperatures
Published 2:05 pm Friday, December 29, 2017
- Freezing temperatures are expected to impact St. John the Baptist Parish by Sunday.
LAPLACE — In advance of below freezing temperatures expected to impact St. John the Baptist Parish and the River Region next week, residents are advised to take freeze precautions at home and work.
Due to the arrival of a cold front over the weekend, temperatures are predicted to fall into the mid-20s to lower 30s beginning Sunday night and remaining through Jan. 5. The National Weather Service may issue freeze warnings at a later time.
Although, light rainfall is expected to accompany the cold front, no winter precipitation is forecast at this time. Preparations for freezing temperatures should be taken as soon as possible, including wrapping and protecting exposed pipes and bringing inside or shielding sensitive plants, crops, outdoor pets and farm animals.
Low temperatures can pose problems to unprotected pipes as well as sensitive vegetation. Residents are reminded to always use heating equipment properly to avoid fires and unplug equipment when leaving a room.
St. John Public Works and Utilities crews will be on hand in the event issues arise with roadways, water, wastewater and drainage systems. Parish officials are also receiving updates from the National Weather Service however residents should monitor weather and news stations for the latest information.
Stay informed by signing up to receive emergency notifications to your home phone, cell phone, email or SMS text messaging device by visiting sjbparish.com and clicking “Stay Connected.”
Safety Tips:
• Pets and plants should be brought inside
• Other animals or livestock should be sheltered in areas with non-frozen drinking water
• Protect plants by covering
• Insulate outdoor faucets with faucet covers, rags, paper or trash bags, or plastic foam
• Plug electric space heaters directly into wall sockets – do not use extension cords
• Space heaters should be turned off when not in the room
• Maintain proper ventilation for all fuel-burning devices
• Keep safety items readily available: flashlight and batteries, battery-powered radio, extra food and water, baby items, first-aid supplies, fire extinguisher, pet food
• Maintain contact with the elderly and those considered at risk
• Dress warmly and keep exposed skin covered if outdoors
