Winter weather in North Texas can bring freezing rain, sleet, and very cold temperatures made worse by wind chill. Planning ahead can help keep you, your family, your pets, and your community safe.
People and Pets
Prepare for the potential loss of power and water by assembling a 3-day supply for each household member:
- Food: Non-perishable, easy-to-eat items
- Water: At least 1 gallon per person per day
- Clothing: Layers, hats, gloves, thermal socks, and boots
- Medications: Include prescriptions, over-the-counter essentials, and even that spare pair of prescription eyewear
- Safety Supplies: First aid kits, flashlights, extra batteries, portable power chargers, and a weather radio
- Pet Essentials: Food, water, vet records, and bedding. Don’t leave pets out in the cold
- Emergency Plans: Include a designated meeting place and communication strategy
- Don’t Panic and Buy Out Stores: Buy only what you need for a reasonable period of time
- Neighbors: Please, be aware of your neighbors and the more vulnerable members of our community
Wind chill in North Texas can drop temperatures rapidly, increasing the risk of frostbite and hypothermia. Minimize time outdoors during cold snaps and dress in multiple warm, moisture- resistant layers. For details, see the Cold Wind Chill Chart.
For those in need of shelter during winter weather, please consider the following locations:
The Bridge Homeless Recovery Center
1818 Corsicana St., Dallas, TX 75201 – (214) 670-1507
Austin Street Center
1717 Jeffries St., Dallas, TX 75226 – (214) 428-4242
For non-emergencies, call the Duncanville Police or Fire Departments at (972) 223-6111, then select option 4. For emergencies, always call 9-1-1.
Protecting Your Home
Prepare your home for freezing temperatures:
- Never use an oven or a gas stovetop to heat your home
- Drip Faucets: Drip faucets in areas prone to freezing, such as the one farthest from your water source, those attached to exposed or poorly insulated pipes, and at least one in each room to protect all pipes
- Insulate Pipes: Wrap exposed indoor and outdoor pipes, cover outdoor faucets, and open cabinet doors to allow warm air circulation
- Seal Drafts: Use weather stripping, towels, or blankets at windows and doors to reduce heat loss
- Generator Safety: Always run generators outside to prevent carbon monoxide poisoning
- Detector Maintenance: Install and check batteries for smoke and carbon monoxide detectors regularly
- Winterize Irrigation/Sprinkler Systems: Insulate all above-ground piping, shut off and drain the system, and put freeze guards on outdoor faucets
- Winterize Swimming Pools: Clean the pool, test the water, add winterizing chemicals, lower the water level, clean the filtration system and pump, clear the lines, and install a winter cover
In severe conditions, keep your thermostat above freezing, even if unoccupied. Regularly check for downed power lines or branches near your property. Stay clear of downed lines and report to 911.
Duncanville Utilities does not recommend turning your water off at the meter but instead contact the City for assistance. For water emergencies Monday through Friday, between 8:00 AM and 5:00 PM call (972) 780-5000 and after-hours call (972) 780-4900.
Power Outage Safety
- Unplug Electronics: Avoid damage from potential surges
- Lighting: Use flashlights instead of candles to reduce fire risk
- Cold Storage: Keep refrigerator/freezer doors closed (fridge items last ~4 hours; freezer~24 hours)
- Medication: Have insulated containers or backup methods to keep medicine cool
- Assistive Devices: Secure backup batteries or alternative power sources
- Downed Power Lines: Stay clear and report any downed power lines by calling 9-1-1 and regularly check for downed power lines or branches near your property
To report outages, visit https://stormcenter.oncor.com/
Stay Informed
Get weather alerts from the National Weather Service and sign up for Duncanville Emergency Service updates at https://member.everbridge.net/892807736722826/new. A NOAA weather radio or a hand-cranked alternative can keep you updated during power outages. For additional tools, visit Ready.gov.
