A sign warns tenants of freezing weather at Marabella Apartment Homes in Tyler on Nov. 11, 2019.  (Tyler Morning Telegraph File)

From Staff Reports

Freezing temperatures in the evenings are projected for Tyler and the surrounding areas through Friday. City of Tyler officials are monitoring the situation and strongly advise residents to watch the weather forecast, winterize their homes and safely use space heaters and generators.

The city says emergency service capabilities are at full strength, and city departments are in frequent communication with each other to ensure all necessary preparations are in place.

The city advises residents to call 9-1-1 in an emergency and stay on the line, don’t hang up until the call is answered. Answer all questions and follow instructions.

The Tyler Police Department’s non-emergency line (903) 531-1000 should be used for all other calls and notifications, including traffic signal issues.

How do I get alerts about storm updates or emergency information?

The City of Tyler has a free emergency alert system that you may sign up for through Smart 911 with RAVE Alert.

Signing up for alerts can be done online at www.smart911.com, where users can then be able to select which alerts from the City of Tyler, Smith County and surrounding areas you would like to receive.

Account users may sign up to receive email and text message alerts. In addition, users may opt to provide additional information like medical conditions, pet information, house description and more. This gives first responders access to critical information on how best to respond to your family’s needs in an emergency situation. All information is secure and will not be shared publicly.

There is also an app available for download for both Apple and Android users.

Utilities/ Water Pipes

All essential city services, including water and wastewater, will continue to operate at full capacity.

Turn sprinkler systems off. Sprinkler systems left on when temperatures drop below freezing may cause sheets of ice to form in streets and on sidewalks. This can create hazardous driving conditions and dangerous walking conditions on both sidewalks and crosswalks.

Frigid temperatures can cause water lines to burst, leading to expensive plumbing repairs.

Remove hoses from outside faucets. Insulate outdoor faucets with a commercial Styrofoam cover, towels, rags or paper.

Know where the main water valve is located at your residence and how to turn it off.

Cover or insulate exposed pipes outside or in unheated areas of your home.

Let cold and hot water drip from faucets at a trickle.

Open kitchen and bathroom sink cabinet doors to circulate warmer air around plumbing.

The Tyler Building Department reminds residents to use only qualified registered plumbers to fix any broken pipe issues. Licensed plumbers are urged to make repairs needed to get customers’ plumbing back in operation and to contact the Permitting Office as soon as possible.

Be a good neighbor

The City of Tyler reminds residents to be good neighbors, work together to take care of people in the community and help each other. Connect with family members, friends, social groups, and work circles for assistance and support.

Check on elderly family members, neighbors, and friends. Older adults can lose body heat fast, and some illnesses may make it harder to stay warm.

Pets

Tyler Animal Control and Shelter reminds pet owners to bring their pets inside where it is warm or set up proper shelter for the animal.

Plants

Cover vulnerable plants and flowers with blankets or sheets.

Roads

Even small accumulations of ice can be extremely dangerous to motorists and pedestrians. Bridges and overpasses are particularly hazardous because they freeze before other surfaces.

Black ice

Black ice is a deadly driving hazard defined as patchy ice on roadways or other transportation surfaces that cannot easily be seen. It is often clear (not white), with the black road surface visible underneath. It is most prevalent during the early morning hours, especially after snow melts on the roadways has a chance to refreeze overnight when the temperature drops below freezing. Black ice can also form when roadways are slick from rain and temperatures drop below freezing overnight.