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Hahnville, LA – President Matthew Jewell and the St. Charles Parish Department of Homeland Security and Emergency Preparedness are in constant communication with the National Weather Service (NWS) regarding the predicted freezing temperatures and wind chill expected Thursday evening through Sunday morning.  

Residents are asked to take precautions to protect people, pets, pipes and plants and have a way to stay weather-aware and receive weather updates. 

Water System Freeze Precautions 

·         Exposed pipes should be wrapped with insulation, towels, newspaper or old clothing and shielded from the wind with plyboard, felt roofing, plastic or cardboard.  

·         Residents are reminded NOT to drip faucets as a drip can cause a loss of pressure and drop of quality in the water system.  

·         The meter box cover must be kept in place with the lid closed to keep meters from freezing.  

 Pet Safety 

·         If you are cold, your pet is cold. Keep your pets inside with you and your family. Residents must bring outdoor dogs inside or must have a raised house with hay and an external heat source. No pet should be left outside for extended periods of time in below-freezing weather.  

·         According to state statute 102.1(c), it is simple cruelty to not provide proper shelter. If a dog is out for an extended period of time in freezing weather, call 985-783-5050 to dispatch the Sheriff’s Office. After verification, Animal Control is dispatched.  

 Heater & Fire Safety  

·         Be cautious when using a space heater and do not leave the heater unattended. Please do not use power strips and extension cords when using a space heater. Space heaters should be plugged directly into a wall outlet. A heater should be placed at least 3-5 feet from combustible objects and flammable materials, such as blankets.  

·         Ensure your smoke detectors and carbon monoxide detectors are functioning properly.  

 Plant Protection 

·         Water soil thoroughly (except around succulents). Wet soil holds heat better than dry soil, protecting roots and warming air near the soil.  

·         Bed sheets, drop cloths, blankets and plastic sheets make suitable coverings for plants. Remove the coverings when temperatures rise.  

SCP Alerts  

·         Sign up for SCP Alerts by texting SCPAlerts to 888777 for updates regarding weather events and other emergencies in St. Charles Parish.  

For more information regarding St. Charles Parish, please visit our website at www.stcharlesparish.gov, Cox Channel 6, UVerse Channel 99, or follow us on Facebook (@stcharlesgov) and Instagram (@stcharlesgov).