Tulsa Fire Department Urges Winter Preparedness Amid Severe Weather

TULSA, Okla. — As temperatures in Tulsa drop below freezing, the Tulsa Fire Department (TFD) is urging residents to take comprehensive precautions to mitigate risks associated with winter weather.

This advisory comes as sunny skies and above-freezing temperatures offer a brief opportunity for residents to prepare for the severe winter weather forecasted later this week.

The TFD emphasizes several key actions to prevent common winter emergencies, including frozen pipes, house fires, and carbon monoxide poisoning.

“Cold weather increases the risk of frozen pipes, which can burst and flood a house,” said Andy Little from TFD. “Letting your faucets run at a steady trickle while keeping cabinet doors open can help maintain warmth around your pipes.”

Little also advises homeowners to know how to shut off their water supply in case of an emergency. “Consider marking your water meter with a flag, as it might be difficult to find once snow accumulates,” he added.

To avoid house fires, TFD recommends positioning space heaters at least three feet away from anything flammable and never leaving them unattended. Moreover, using stoves or ovens for heating is strongly discouraged.

An additional area of concern is carbon monoxide safety. “We respond to multiple cases of carbon monoxide poisoning during cold spells, primarily due to the misuse of grills, stoves, and generators inside homes,” warned Little. TFD offers free carbon monoxide detector installations for residents to enhance safety.

Residents are also advised to cover outdoor faucets, insulate pipes, and block wind access to crawl spaces that harbor uninsulated pipes. For travelers, TFD encourages keeping warm clothing, blankets, and supplies in cars.

In collaboration with Oklahoma Natural Gas, the Tulsa Fire Department advises setting thermostats between 68°F to 70°F, and lowering them when away or asleep to save energy. Regular maintenance like changing air filters and ensuring heating appliances are in good condition can significantly lower energy consumption and hazards.

As winter weather is expected to cause treacherous driving conditions, TFD asks residents to remain cautious on the roads: “Leave early if you need to be somewhere, and be sure to allow extra time for potential icy conditions,” Little said.

Additionally, TFD stresses the importance of checking in on elderly neighbors and loved ones to ensure they have proper heating and supplies. “Remember, it’s illegal to leave pets outside during freezing temperatures,” Little added, reiterating the need for both human and animal safety.

Overall, the Tulsa Fire Department aims to equip residents with actionable steps to minimize risks associated with harsh winter conditions, ensuring the community remains safe and prepared.