Bean Blast - Be Prepared for Cold Weather!

Bean Blast - 01/18/2024

A Message from Columbia Housing CEO Yvonda A. Bean

South Carolina is expecting record-setting cold temperatures over the next few days. We Have prepared a list of extreme cold weather tips drawing on the best advice from the SC Emergency Management Division, the Centers for Disease Control & Prevention, Dominion Energy, and local news sources.

Please stay warm and safe!

Extreme Cold Safety Tips

Please refer to the tips below to ensure you remain safe.
Please report any maintenance issues as soon as possible by calling 803.251.2747
Stay tuned to local media for the most up-to-date information on weather conditions.

• Bundle Up
  It might seem obvious, but piling on a few extra layers is a great way to stay warm, especially if you have to be outside. Keeping your core warm is especially important when temperatures dip below freezing, so try wearing an extra shirt or two under your coat.
  
  
• Practice Space Heater Safety
  Space heaters are a great way to add extra heat to colder rooms, but always remember to keep anything flammable at least three feet away from the heater at all times. Flammable items include clothing, rugs, bedding, and curtains. Place a space heater on hard, non-flammable, stable surfaces and turn it off completely before leaving the house. Set a reminder on your phone if you're afraid you'll forget.
  
  
• Check on Elderly Neighbors & Family Members
  Checking in on older loved ones, neighbors, and friends is especially important during very cold weather. Older adults are particularly susceptible to hypothermia, which occurs when a person's body temperature drops below normal for a period of time. Make sure they have heat, warm blankets, and enough supplies to limit their time outside.
  
  
• Keep Heat Constant
  Setting your thermostat at the same temperature day and night will help prevent your pipes from freezing and bursting. While avoiding a high heating bill might be tempting, you could be protecting yourself from costly repairs from frozen or burst pipes. If you are going to be away from home for an extended period of time, don't lower the heat below 55 degrees.
  
  
• Protect Pipes from Freezing
  Keeping the heat on isn't the only thing you can do to protect pipes from freezing. let you hot and cold faucets drip overnight and open cabinet doors to allow heat to get to uninsulated pipes under sinks and on exterior walls.
  
  
• Watch Out for Furry Friends
  Always remember to bring pets inside when temperatures begin to drop. Limit outside walks and exposure to 10 minutes or less during extreme cold weather.

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