Central Louisiana News

Crews from the Alexandria Utility System are making preparations for an anticipated winter weather event. Forecasts suggest freezing conditions and snow could affect the area for about 48 hours starting at midnight on Monday. Uninsulated water pipes are at risk of freezing and potentially bursting during this period.

Residents are advised to take several precautionary measures:

- Check sprinkler or irrigation systems to ensure they are turned off or drained, and insulate or drain the backflow preventer near the water meter.

- Know how to properly shut off your home's water supply.

- Protect pipes by wrapping them with insulating products.

- Identify your home's freezing points, eliminate sources of cold air near water pipes, and seal drafts around windows or doors.

- Consider shutting off water supplies to unoccupied structures before the freeze.

Regarding indoor faucets, it is not necessary to drip them unless there is a power outage combined with temperatures below 28 degrees for four hours or more. In such cases, a slow drip of five drops per minute may be sufficient without putting system pressure at risk.

To prevent fire hazards, residents should connect portable heaters, heated blankets, and similar appliances directly to wall outlets rather than using power strips or extension cords. It is important not to use outdoor grills or heating products indoors.

For those experiencing a water leak during this weather event who need assistance shutting off their home’s water supply, service requests can be submitted through the AlexConnects Mobile App or online. Medical, fire, or public safety emergencies should continue to be reported via 911.

Residents can register for weather notifications through AlexAlerts online.