Deep Freeze Preparation Tips for Kingstowne

Bitterly cold temperatures are expected to slam the Fairfax County area later today and tomorrow, and County officials have provided several tips to safeguard the community.

Our area is under a wind chill advisory from the National Weather Service beginning at 6 p.m. Monday until 6 p.m. Tuesday. The temperature and winds will make it feel like it’s 5 to 15 degrees below zero. Here’s what you can do to beat the freeze:

For People

• If you see someone unsheltered in this extreme cold weather, call703-691-2131, TTY 711. Learn more about our emergency shelters and hypothermia program.
• Watch for signs of frostbite and hypothermia. If you must be outside, either for work or leisure, take precautions such as dressing in layers. Watch this short video for tips, especially for advice on when to go to a hospital:

For Pets

• Do NOT leave pets outside!
• Because the freezing temperatures may be deadly to pets, our animal shelter is offering temporary emergency housing for cats, dogs, and small companion animals. If you or someone you know needs to utilize this service, contact the shelter at 703-324-0208, TTY 711, or e-mail FCPDPetResources@fairfaxcounty.gov.
• We have more safety tips for pets in cold weather.

For Property

• Today will be your last chance to protect your pipes from freezing or bursting. Here are more details about what to do to protect your pipes.
• Fill up your car gas tanks – there’s less of a chance of gas lines freezing (and it takes longer idling to get the cars warm before traveling).
• If you plan to use alternative heating sources such as fireplaces or portable heaters, please take a quick minute to review these safety tips for the safety of your family. Put a freeze on winter fires: