With freezing temperatures in the forecast, the City of Arlington wants residents to know what to do to be safe, and how to keep your pets safe.

Preparing for Freezing Temperatures

• Never use a generator, grill, camp stove or other gasoline, propane, natural gas or charcoal-burning device inside a home or enclosed area because carbon monoxide poisoning from these types of units can be fatal.
• Allow hot and cold water to slowly drip from inside faucets.
• Open cabinet doors under sinks to expose pipes to heat within the house.
• Wrap exposed exterior pipes and faucets with foam insulation or newspaper.
• Wrap pipes located in attics or garages with heat tape or cover them with pipe insulation.
• Remove garden hoses from outside faucets.
• Cover all openings around the foundation.
• If planning to be out of town for an extended time, turn off water to the house and open faucets to reduce pressure.
• Bring plants inside. Use a sheet or blanket to cover those that must remain outside.
• If water pipes become frozen, let them thaw naturally by exposing warmer air to the pipes. Never try to thaw pipes using hair dryers or other forms of heat!

• Turn off your outdoor irrigation system and only run it manually when needed this winter.

• If you do not have a private water cutoff valve, and need help with turning your water off, call 817-275-5931 Monday-Friday 8:00am-5:00pm, or 817-459-5900 after hours & on weekends.

For more information and tips, visit the Office of Emergency Management web site.

Preparing Pets for Freezing Temperatures - Tips from the U.S. Humane Society

• Never leave pets outdoors when temperatures drop below freezing. Dogs need outdoor exercise, so avoid keeping them out for lengthy periods during icy weather.
• Recognize the signs of hypothermia. The signs include a weak pulse, dilated pupils, decreased heart rate, extreme shivering, pale or blue mucous membranes, body temperature below 95 degrees, stupor and unconsciousness. Extreme hypothermia is dangerous to your pet's health.
• Outdoor dogs must be protected by a dry, draft-free doghouse that is large enough to allow the animal to sit and lie down, but small enough to hold body heat. The floor should be raised a few inches off the ground and covered with loose, insulating material such as straw or shredded newspaper. The house should be turned to face away from the wind, and the doorway should be covered with a flap of heavy waterproof fabric or plastic.
• Remember, pets spending a lot of time outdoors need more food during the winter months. Routinely check your pet's water dish to make certain the water is fresh and not frozen. Use plastic food and water bowls rather than metal; when the temperature is low, your pet's tongue can stick and freeze to metal.
• During cold weather, warm automobile engines are dangerous for cats and small wildlife. Parked vehicles attract small animals seeking warmth. To avoid injury to a hidden animal, bang on your vehicle's hood before starting your engine.
• De-icing chemicals are hazardous. Salt and other chemicals used to melt snow and ice can irritate your animal's feet. Wipe feet with a damp towel after coming in from outdoors - even when you don't see salt on streets and walkways.

For more information about animal safety, visit the Animal Services web site.

Freezing Temperatures Can Lead to Water Main Breaks

The City of Arlington is asking residents to be aware of potential water main breaks when freezing temperatures begin to rise.

Frozen and busted water mains throughout the City are undetected during freezing temperatures, but as temperatures rise, problem areas will become visible. Residents are asked to contact the Water Utilities Department at 817-459-5900 to report potential breaks.

Slow, steady leaks also occur during cold weather. This may cause ice to form in localized areas near the leak, or in intersections. This causes unsafe conditions for drivers. Residents are asked to contact the Water Utilities Department at 817-459-5900 to report slow leaks that may cause ice to form.

Weather Updates

Residents are always advised to monitor local radio and television news reports for the latest weather updates.