Our first freeze of the season is mere hours away. The National Weather Service has issued a Freeze Warning for Franklin County and much of central and southwestern Ohio.
Although we typically don’t experience our first freeze until the end of October, it’s not completely unheard of to be dealing with freezing temperatures this early in the season. The current record for the earliest freeze, according to the National Weather Service, is September 21.
The Freeze Warning will be in effect from 2 a.m. to 9 a.m. on Wednesday, October 16. Temperatures in Columbus are expected to get as low as 34, with a potential for cooler temps.
So how exactly do you prepare for a frost warning? Here are some tips for getting your home ready for the dropping temperatures.
Home Prep
- Protect Your Pipes: Cover any exposed pipes, especially in cold spots like the basement or garage. Disconnect garden hoses and drain outdoor faucets to avoid any freezing disasters.
- Seal Up Drafts: Feel a cold breeze sneaking in? Use weatherstripping or caulk to seal up windows and doors. It’ll keep your place cozy and help cut down on heating costs.
- Check the Heat: Make sure your furnace is ready to go! Change the air filters, clean out vents, and give your thermostat a test run.
- Save the Plants: Bring in those potted plants, or cover up outdoor ones with frost blankets. Giving them a good drink before the freeze can help, too.
- Roof & Gutter Check: Clean out those gutters and check for loose shingles before ice and snow start causing bigger issues.
Personal Prep
- Layer Up: Break out the sweaters and jackets! Make sure you’ve got all your cold-weather gear ready to go, from gloves to cozy socks.
- Car Care: Don’t forget your ride! Check your tires, top off the antifreeze, and make sure your heater is working before the temps drop.
- Emergency Kit: Just in case, have an emergency kit on hand with water, snacks, blankets, and flashlights in case of any power outages.
Stay warm out there, Columbus!