Top 10 Essential Tips for Preparing for a Winter Storm in Dallas Fort Worth Area
- Brian Hall
- 5 days ago
- 4 min read
While Texas is not known for harsh winters, recent years have shown how quickly weather can turn severe, disrupting daily life and posing safety risks. With the pending winter storm headed our way, preparation can make all the difference in staying safe, comfortable, and connected. This guide offers ten practical tips tailored for the DFW community to help you get ready for cold weather, icy roads, and power outages.
1. Stock Up on Essential Supplies
Winter storms can disrupt supply chains and limit access to stores. Start by gathering enough supplies to last at least 3 to 5 days.
Food and Water: Choose non-perishable foods like canned goods, dried fruits, nuts, and ready-to-eat meals. Store at least one gallon of water per person per day.
Medications and Health Supplies: Refill prescriptions early and keep a first aid kit handy.
Warm Clothing and Blankets: Layering is key. Have extra hats, gloves, socks, and blankets ready.
Batteries and Flashlights: Power outages are common, so stock up on batteries and have multiple flashlights.
Baby and Pet Supplies: Don’t forget formula, diapers, and pet food.
Local grocery stores and pharmacies in DFW often experience high demand before storms. Plan your shopping early to avoid shortages.
2. Winterize Your Home
Protecting your home from cold weather reduces heating costs and prevents damage.
Seal Windows and Doors: Use weather stripping or caulk to close gaps where cold air can enter.
Insulate Pipes: Wrap exposed pipes to prevent freezing and bursting.
Check Heating Systems: Have your furnace serviced before winter. Keep extra fuel if you use a fireplace or space heater.
Clear Gutters and Drains: Prevent ice dams by ensuring water flows freely.
Prepare for Power Outages: Have alternative heating sources like propane heaters, but use them safely and with proper ventilation.
DFW residents can contact local utility companies for tips on home winterization and inquire about assistance programs for energy efficiency upgrades.
3. Prepare Your Vehicle for Winter Conditions
Roads in the DFW area can become slick and dangerous during ice or snow.
Check Tires: Ensure tires have good tread and consider all-season or winter tires.
Keep Gas Tank Full: A full tank prevents fuel line freeze and ensures you can keep the heater running if stranded.
Emergency Car Kit: Include jumper cables, blankets, a flashlight, bottled water, snacks, a shovel, and traction aids like sand or kitty litter.
Battery and Fluids: Test your battery and top off antifreeze, windshield washer fluid, and oil.
Plan Your Routes: Use apps or local news for road conditions and avoid unnecessary travel during storms.
Local DFW auto shops often offer winter vehicle inspections—schedule one before the season.
4. Stay Informed About Weather Updates
Accurate, timely information helps you make smart decisions.
Use Trusted Sources: Follow the National Weather Service Dallas/Fort Worth office, local TV stations, and emergency management agencies.
Weather Apps and Alerts: Enable push notifications for severe weather alerts on your phone.
Community Alerts: Sign up for DFW city or county emergency alert systems.
Radio and Battery-Powered Devices: Keep a battery-powered or hand-crank radio to receive updates if power or internet fails.
Knowing when a storm is approaching allows you to act early and avoid last-minute rushes.
5. Plan for Power Outages
Winter storms often cause outages that can last hours or days.
Have Backup Power: Portable generators can power essential appliances but must be used outdoors to avoid carbon monoxide poisoning.
Keep Devices Charged: Charge phones, laptops, and power banks before the storm.
Use Alternative Lighting: Candles can be a fire hazard; use LED lanterns or flashlights instead.
Keep Refrigerator and Freezer Closed: This helps food stay cold longer during outages.
Know Where to Go for Help: Identify local warming centers or shelters in the DFW area that open during extended outages.
Check with your utility provider for outage maps and estimated restoration times.
6. Create a Family Emergency Plan
Having a clear plan reduces stress and confusion.
Communication: Decide how family members will contact each other if separated.
Meeting Places: Choose safe locations inside and outside your neighborhood.
Special Needs: Plan for elderly relatives, children, or pets.
Emergency Contacts: Keep a list of important phone numbers written down in case phones die.
Practice your plan so everyone knows what to do when the storm hits.
7. Protect Your Pipes and Plumbing
Frozen pipes can cause costly damage.
Keep Faucets Dripping: A slow drip helps prevent freezing.
Open Cabinet Doors: Allow warm air to circulate around plumbing under sinks.
Know How to Shut Off Water: Locate your main water valve in case a pipe bursts.
Drain Outdoor Hoses: Disconnect and store hoses to avoid freezing.
Make Sure Your Lawn Sprinkler System is turned off: This will help alleviate additional iciness.
If you suspect a frozen pipe, avoid using open flames to thaw it. Call a professional plumber.
8. Use Local Resources and Community Support
DFW has many resources to help residents during winter storms.
Emergency Shelters and Warming Centers: Check city websites for locations.
Community Groups: Neighborhood associations and faith groups often organize assistance.
Utility Assistance Programs: Some programs help with heating bills or repairs.
Volunteer Opportunities: Helping neighbors, especially seniors or disabled individuals, strengthens community resilience.
Stay connected with local news and social media for updates on available services.
9. Keep Pets Safe and Warm
Pets need special care during cold weather.
Bring Pets Indoors: Avoid leaving animals outside for long periods.
Provide Warm Bedding: Use blankets or pet beds away from drafts.
Stock Up on Pet Food and Water: Ensure you have enough supplies if you cannot leave home.
Avoid Antifreeze: It is toxic to pets; clean up spills immediately.
Local animal shelters in DFW may offer resources or emergency boarding during storms.
10. Know When to Stay Put and When to Evacuate
Safety is the top priority.
Avoid Driving in Dangerous Conditions: Roads can freeze quickly, and accidents increase.
Follow Official Instructions: If authorities advise evacuation or sheltering in place, comply promptly.
Have a Go-Bag Ready: Include essentials like clothes, documents, medications, and cash.
Check on Vulnerable Neighbors: Offer help or alert emergency services if needed.
Being cautious and prepared helps prevent emergencies and injuries.