Stay safe during winter weather

Prepare for Oklahoma City’s unpredictable winter storms by having a plan to protect your home, family, pets and vehicles. 

Build a Winter Storm Kit 

• Home Essentials: Stock up on non-perishable food and water for 1–2 weeks. Add extra blankets, winter clothing and water-resistant boots. 

• Vehicle Kit: Include blankets, jumper cables, a shovel, sand or cat litter, extra clothing and a first-aid kit. 

• Medication and Supplies: Refill prescriptions, oxygen or other critical supplies before the storm hits. 

• Stay Connected: Charge your cellphone and have backup power if possible. 

Preventing Frozen Pipes 

Open cabinet doors under sinks and let faucets drip if temperatures drop below freezing for extended periods. If pipes burst, call Oklahoma City crews at (405) 297-3334 to shut off your water. 

Checking on Neighbors 

Make sure elderly family, friends and neighbors are prepared. Offer help and check in during and after the storm. 

Heating Safety Tips 

Heating equipment is a leading cause of winter house fires. Follow these guidelines: 

• Install Alarms: Ensure working smoke and carbon monoxide alarms are on every level of your home and near sleeping areas. Test alarms monthly. 

• Space Heater Safety: Keep heaters at least three feet from flammable materials and turn them off before leaving the room or sleeping. 

• Fireplace Precautions: Use a metal grate or screen, extinguish fires completely before sleeping and have fireplaces cleaned annually. 

• No Ovens for Heating: Never use an oven to heat your home. 

• Generator Use: Operate generators outside, far from windows and doors, to avoid carbon monoxide poisoning. 

Protect Your Pets 

Cold weather can be dangerous for pets: 

• Bring pets inside. If left outside, they must have a heated, insulated shelter. 

• Dry pets’ paws and stomachs after being outside to prevent frostbite. 

• Keep drinking water unfrozen and provide a warm sleeping area away from drafts. 
  By city ordinance, animals must be protected from temperatures below 32°F. 

Winter Driving Tips 

If you must drive during icy or snowy conditions: 

• Have your car winterized, including tire checks. 

• Drive slowly, increase stopping distance and use headlights. 

• Keep your gas tank full. 

• Pack emergency supplies like blankets, a shovel and traction aids (sand or cat litter). 

Regional Snow Routes and EMBARK Updates 

• Snow Routes: Use Oklahoma City’s snow route map to navigate safer roads during winter weather. 

• Public Transit: Check for EMBARK bus delays or detours during severe weather at embarkok.com. 

Preparation is key to staying safe and minimizing the impacts of winter storms. Start now to protect your loved ones, and visit okc.gov for additional resources and updates.