OK, this is really local! the central Texas region is bracing for some unseasonally cold weather and it is important to prepare before the freeze hits. In particular, if you are not used to temperatures below freezing, a house needs special attention in the following areas:
-All exterior water lines need to be insulated. If you can monitor, it is ok to open the faucet a tiny bit to allow freezing water to not bust the faucet and escape.
-If you have a poorly insulated house, make sure any water lines near the outside walls are kept warm. You can open cabinet doors to make sure lines under sinks get adequate air flow as well.
-Cannot overemphasize that pets need to be cared for; bring inside or make sure their outside kennels/stables, etc are insulated and extra bedding is available for them. An extra blanket is a good idea.
-Plants that are native may freeze, but should come back in the spring. If you have non-native plants outside then you need to cover them or bring them in if in containers. Don't allow plastic tarps to touch the leaves as it acts as a conductor and anything the plastic touches may freeze as well.
if you are a renter - please do your part and help prevent problems. If you are an owner, these tips may save a lot of money later as some insurance does not cover frozen pipes!
Stay warm and enjoy a fire or just curl up with a book and hot chocolate. The folks "Up North" think this is nothing, but they don't have 100 degree summers either!
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