LAPLACE — The National Weather Service is continuing to issue Freeze Warnings for St. John the Baptist Parish and surrounding areas, local officials stressed Tuesday morning, as the region experiences frigid temperatures between 25 and 30 degrees.

Residents are asked to make preparations to pipes, homes and businesses if not done so already to prevent pipes from freezing.

Additional nights of freezing temperatures are expected through Thursday.

Sporadic power outages are also occurring due to the duration of cold weather.

Dial 1-800-9OUTAGE if you experience one in your area. Residents are also reminded to dial 911 for any issues or concerns.

How to Protect Pipes from Freezing:

• Wrap exposed pipes with insulation. Home improvement stores have pipe sleeves or pipe tape that work pretty well to prevent exposed pipes from freezing and bursting.

• Disconnect your garden hose. Drain it, and store it for the winter.

• If, as is usually the case, your kitchen sink is against an exterior wall, open the cabinet doors during times of extreme weather. This will allow the warm air in the house to keep the pipes leading to the sink heated.

• If you are away from the house, even for a weekend, make sure it is well heated. • Consider switching off the water.

Other Safety Tips:

• Pets and plants should be brought inside.

• 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.

Fire Watch

Louisiana Fire Marshal Butch Browning Jr. issued an emergency alert in anticipation of the record breaking cold and freezing temperatures currently being experienced throughout the State.

As of Monday night, fire marshal deputies responded to seven fire investigations during the previous 12 hours.

Thes fires were in multiple areas of the State and ranged from single family residential fires to significant commercial structure fires.

There has been one reported injury associated with these fires.

Fire Marshal Deputies have been placed on standby and will continue to respond in a very efficient and professional manner.

Please remain alert and aware of the following safety principles during the next several days:

• Each residential occupancy should have working smoke alarms in each sleeping area and outside of each sleeping area.

• Heating devices should only be used for their intended use. Manufacturers’ recommendation for safe use should be adhered to.

• Check regularly on the family, friends and neighbors who may need assistance during adverse weather conditions.

• If using gas fired heating devices make sure that there is a functional carbon monoxide alarm installed in the home.