Prepare for winter weather

The City of North Myrtle Beach is committed to informing and protecting its community during the cold season. Stay warm and safe this winter with helpful tips. Preparation is key to navigating the cold weather.

As temperatures drop, please keep in mind the four P’s: people, pets, pipes and plants.

Use safe approved heating methods to avoid carbon monoxide poisoning or fire hazards. As a reminder, ovens are not recommended to be utilized to assist in heating a home. Gas ovens create a greater carbon monoxide risk. Electric ovens create greater fire hazard when on for long periods of time.

Prepare for the cold and wind chills by ensuring proper insulation of outdoor piping and/or areas where cold drafts allow colder air into your home and having emergency supplies on hand. Consider keeping faucets on a slow drip to help prevent pipes from freezing.

Check on your elderly neighbors who may need assistance in this type of weather and always bring pets indoors when possible.

Check the forecast at weather.gov or your favorite weather app, station, etc. and make checking the forecast part of your regular routine so you will know when to expect cold weather.

If possible, avoid being outside during the coldest part of the day, typically the early morning. Try to find a warm spot for your children while waiting for the school bus outside.

Protect your pets, livestock and other property. If you have pets or farm animals, make sure they are not overly exposed to extreme cold and have plenty of food and water that has not frozen. Take precautions to ensure your water pipes do not freeze. Know the temperature thresholds of your plants and crops.

Make sure your car or vehicle has at least a half tank of gas during extreme cold so that you can stay warm if you become stranded.

Dress for the outdoors even if you don’t think you’ll be out much.

Make sure your car survival kit has the following:

Jumper cables: flares or reflective triangle are great extras

Flashlights: Replace the batteries before the winter season starts and pack extras.

First Aid Kit: Carry essential medications with you in a purse or bag.

Baby gear: Diapers and any special formula or food.

Medical supplies: Materials for any special medical needs.

Food: Non-perishable food such as canned food and a can opener, dry cereal and protein rich foods like nuts and energy bars.

Water: At least 1 gallon of water per person a day for at least 3 days.

Basic tool kit: Pliers, wrench and a screwdriver.

Pet supplies: Food and water.

Radio: Battery or hand cranked.

Cat litter or sand: For better tire traction.

Shovel: To dig out snow.

Ice scraper: Have one in the car even if you usually park in a garage.

Clothes: Dress for the weather in warm clothes, gloves, hat, sturdy boots, jacket and an extra change of cold weather clothes.

Warmers: For body, hands and feet.

Blankets or sleeping bags: If you get stranded you’ll be glad to have it.

Charged Cell Phone: And keep a spare charger in your car.