Winter Safety in Williamson County
It’s no secret that Tennessee winters can be incredibly unpredictable. As we gear up for a cold January here in Williamson County, keep in mind some safety tips to make sure you and yours stay safe and sound this season. Come mild sunshine or heavy snow, we want you to be prepared.
Home Safety
Freezing temperatures can pose a risk to your home. Winter conditions can increase risk of pipes freezing and bursting, electrical issues, and fire hazards. Limit the possibility of property damage by weatherproofing your home. Stay up to date with safety regulations, weather alerts and tips from your local fire department to protect your family and property.
- Insulation is key! Repair and close off any gaps in windows or doors, close off crawl spaces, wrap exposed pipes in insulation or electrical heat tracing wire, and make sure your walls are properly insulated. Use caulk if necessary around door frames, windows, and pipes.
- Recognize the areas of your home that are most susceptible to freezing temperatures, such as crawl spaces, basements, attics, and garages.
- Open cabinet doors to expose pipes to the warmer, indoor temperature. This prevents freezing. Especially if prone to freezing, leave faucets slightly dripping overnight to protect your pipes.
- Know where the primary water shut-off valve is located, just in case a pipe bursts. Shut the water off as soon as possible should this happen.
- To thaw a pipe, use an electric blow dryer.
- Use alternative heating sources safely. Don’t leave space heaters or fireplaces unattended. Be smart with ventilation!
- Make sure that all smoke alarms and carbon monoxide detectors are working properly.
If all else (plumbing related) fails . . .
Consider a home water monitoring device for peace of mind. Water monitoring devices can detect irregularities in your home’s water system, sending alerts to your smartphone and allowing the water to be turned off with just the click of a button. This prevents the possibility of your home flooding if the pipes leak or burst. You can find these devices online or at large appliance stores in Franklin and Brentwood, such as Home Depot, Ace Hardware, and Best Buy. Find the best device for your home Here.
On the Road Safety
As temperatures dip below freezing, driving conditions can become hazardous. Take extra caution when traveling, staying aware about the possibility of slick roads and snow cover. Due to the normally temperate Southern climate of Williamson County, local snow and ice removal resources aren’t quite as abundant as they are in states used to harsher winters. Keep this in mind, especially if you grew up in a more Northern climate. With a limited amount of plows and salt trucks, it is less likely that back and side roads will be treated directly following a snow or ice storm.
- If possible, limit driving time and stick to main roads. The streets department also asks that citizens limit street parking during winter events, to avoid possible collisions and the likelihood of damage to vehicles from contact with road salt.
- To prepare for adverse weather conditions, make sure to have at least a half tank of gas in your vehicle at all times.
- Keep up with your vehicle’s maintenance to limit the possibility of car issues in harsh weather. Have a mechanic check your antifreeze, tires, and car battery.
- If an emergency situation should occur, it’s important to have an emergency kit in your car. Stock the kit with water, food, and tools. Some tools to keep on hand include a windshield scraper, a compact shovel, a flashlight, and booster cables. It’s also a good idea to keep blankets, extra clothing, and hand warmers inside your vehicle during the winter months.
- Be extra cognizant of the rules of the road. Stay alert behind the wheel and follow traffic laws carefully. Keep your speed to a minimum.
School Delays and Closures:
If road conditions become too dangerous, schools in the area will likely be delayed or closed. Williamson County Schools aims to let staff and parents know by 9 p.m. the night before school closure, although this foresight might not always be possible. If conditions change, the school will likely call homes as early as 5 a.m. to notify families. Notifications may also be available through text, email, social media, and through the mobile app available to those in the district. Find out more from Williamson County Schools Here.
Snow Day Safety
If you’re out enjoying the snow, take precautions to make sure you and your family stay safe and healthy!
- Layer up! Wear proper clothing to avoid frostbite or hypothermia.
- Wear protective gear for more dangerous winter activities, like sledding or snow boarding.
- If spending a long time outdoors, take regular breaks to warm up indoors.
- Drink plenty of water and warm liquids. You lose a lot of water through your breath when you’re outside in the cold and breathing hard.
Look out for frostbite. It is most common on the fingers, toes, ears, and face and happens when the skin is exposed to the freezing cold for a long period of time. If you or someone you know is experiencing symptoms, get indoors immediately. If symptoms continue, seek medical attention.
Signs of frostbite:
- Frost nip is the first sign of potential frost bite. This occurs when the skin is red, tingly, or numb after exposure to cold.
- Frost bite progresses when the skin starts to feel hard and completely numb. The area may start to pale.
Cold Weather Shelters
Any time the temperature is below freezing (32 degrees Fahrenheit), The Williamson County Homeless Alliance offers emergency shelter for those experiencing homelessness. Those seeking shelter should go to the Franklin Community Church Center at 5 p.m. for supper. From there, shelter is provided at a different local church each night until 7 a.m. the following morning. Transportation is not provided.
Pet Protection
Frigid temperatures can also be dangerous for our furry friends! Keep in mind the safety and comfort of your pets in extreme weather conditions.
- Bring your outside pets indoors! If that isn’t possible, make sure that they have the proper shelter necessary to stay safe and warm.
- Make sure your animals have plenty of food and water. Double-check that their water sources are not frozen.
- Keep your pets away from the harsh antifreeze chemicals that may be around roads and cars.
- If you see an animal being improperly cared for during harsh conditions, contact local law enforcement.
Local Numbers to have on hand:
Williamson County Sheriff Department Dispatch (non-emergency): 615-790-5550
Franklin Police Department (non-emergency): 615-794-2513
Brentwood Police Department (non-emergency): 615-371-0160
Tennessee Highway Patrol: 615-741-2060
City of Franklin Street Department: 615-791-3254
Brentwood Public Works Department: 615-371-0080
Williamson County Schools: 615-472-4000
Franklin Water Management Department: 615-794-4554
Stay warm, Williamson County, Tennessee! While enjoying the beauty and rest of the winter season, remember to keep the safety of yourself and others a top priority.
