Stay safe during freezing temperatures

Remember the four “Ps” of winter weather safety.

Click on each for more information  

  1. People
  2. Pets
  3. Pipes
  4. Plants

Taking care of People

  • Make a family communication plan and discuss with your family.
  • Make an emergency kit.
  • Keep warm, stay inside if possible.
  • If you need to go out, dress in layers and wear hats, gloves, and an appropriate coat.
  • If you must travel, use Sugar Land's Real-Time Traffic Conditions Map to check traffic and road conditions before you head out.
  • Avoid overexertion, as cold weather puts added strain on your body.
  • Never place a space heater on top of furniture or near water.
  • Keep heat sources at least 3 feet away from furniture and drapes.
  • Never leave children unattended near a space heater.
  • Protect yourself from carbon monoxide (CO) poisoning by installing a battery-operated CO detector and never using generators, grills, camp stoves, or similar devices indoors.

Home Safety

  • Fit exposed pipes with insulation sleeves or wrapping to slow heat transfer.
  • Learn how to shut off water valves (in case a pipe bursts).
  • Seal cracks and holes in outside walls and foundations near water pipes with caulking.
  • Make sure you have a working carbon monoxide detector. Carbon monoxide related deaths are highest during colder months.
  • Make sure your gutters are clear of leaves and debris.
  • Maintain heating equipment and chimneys by having them cleaned and inspected every year.

Sprinkler System Breaker Protection

What to do if your pipes freeze

  • Turn off the main water to your home
  • Open all interior faucets
  • Wait for the temperature outside to rise above freezing
  • Keep a close eye out for leaks as frozen pipes often expand, crack and leak

If a pipe bursts

  • Locate and shut off water at the main valve 
  • If main valve cannot be located, call 311 or 281-275-2900 and the city's utility staff will come and turn off water at the meter 
  • Call a plumber 

Main Water Valve Shut Off