Hey, fellow Texans. You might have heard about the cold weather that’s in the forecast for this week, and you know what that means — meat and toilet paper will be flying off the shelves of your neighborhood grocery store faster than you can say “winter storm.”

But we’ll let you in on a little secret — if we found ourselves in the same situation we were in last winter (and rest assured THIS IS NOT a repeat of that event), a stash of enough teepee to hang from the trees of all your enemies’ houses isn’t going to be your saving grace.

We’ve compiled a list of what you really need to do, and have on hand, in case of a severe winter event. So put one of those pork roasts back on the shelf and scratch these items off your Texan to-do list:

Now is an opportune time to register your cell phone number and/or email address with Warn Central Texas to receive emergency alerts from local officials by text, phone and/or email. The program is available in Williamson County and surrounding counties through the Capital Area Council of Governments (CAPCOG). Register today at warncentraltexas.org. 

As always, the City of Round Rock reminds residents to follow the four “P’s” of winter weather safety:

Always keep your gas tank full to avoid ice in the tank and fuel lines. These items could literally save your life in the case you encounter winter weather on the road:

Don’t forget to check local media for up-to-date information before getting on the roads. You can also monitor road conditions by visiting drivetexas.org or calling 1-800-452-9292. If icy conditions materialize during , non-essential travel is discouraged. If you must travel, drive slowly and increase your stopping distance. Watch for downed trees and power lines across roads. If power fails, treat all intersections as four-way stops.

Oncor is the electricity provider in the City of Round Rock. Report power outages through Oncor’s Storm Center website, by calling 888-313-4747 or texting OUT to 66267 if you have registered for My Oncor Alerts. To register for My Oncor Alerts, text REG to 66267. You will receive proactive power outage notifications and status updates all from your phone. (You can also select your contact preferences – email, text or voice alert).

Make sure you have the following basic emergency supplies on hand in preparation for a winter weather event:

In the case of a prolonged power outage, it’s best to have a one-week stash of canned foods, dry mixes and other staples that do not require refrigeration, cooking, water or special preparation. Here are some ideas for practical items you can keep in your pantry: 

If your power goes out, alternative cooking sources that can be used in times of emergency include candle warmers, chafing dishes, fondue pots or a fireplace. Never use charcoal grills and camp stoves indoors due to the threat of carbon monoxide poisoning.

For additional information and tips on preparing for winter weather, visit ready.gov/winter-weather.

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City of Round Rock 221 East Main Street Round Rock, TX 78664 512-218-5400