City of Dallas prepares for the winter wave with several initiatives
Dallas, Texas – Dallas is bracing for potentially harsh weather conditions. The city is taking numerous initiatives meant to protect its citizens and provide the information they need during this winter wave.
The City of Dallas started a proactive campaign to guarantee that, among the cold, everyone—including the homeless—has access to secure and heated facilities. Temporary Inclement Weather Shelters at the Fair Park Grand Building have been erected by the Office of Homeless Solutions (OHS). For people most vulnerable during major storms, these shelters are essential. The city invites community members to sign up at OHSVolunteer.com to help these initiatives.
For conditions such as temperatures dropping below 36 degrees with significant precipitation, or below freezing in drier conditions, these shelters provide a much-needed refuge for the homeless between 4 p.m. and 8 a.m.
Beginning Thursday, January 9, 2025 the Dallas Emergency Operations Center will be fully operational. The city recommends to register in advance for the DallasAlert service. During an emergency, this service is essential for fast, life-saving text, voice, or email notifications.
The Department of Transportation and Public Works has already set up 6 pretreatment brine trucks and 50 sanding vehicles ahead of bad weather. Residential streets, however, will only see sanding operations on an emergency basis asked for by first responders.
The Department of Sanitation Services also issued a winter weather advisory for solid waste collections on January 9 and 10. Depending on the state of road safety evaluated every morning, collections could be postponed or delayed.
Read also: Emergency teams in Texas prepare for freezing temperatures and potential snowstorms
Dallas Animal Services warns pets owners that if it is too cold for them, it is also actually cold for their animals. Pets should be kept indoors and any distressed animals left in the cold should be reported to city services under special care throughout winter. Residents also should be careful when walking their dogs, use pet-safe ice melts, and make sure their animals have suitable winter apparel.
Dallas Water Utilities has developed policies meant to stop cold temperatures from damaging properties. To stop water damage, residents are recommended to check and get prepared their sprinkler systems and know how to run their private shut-off valve.
Dallas advises its residents to remain informed and make use of the tools the city offers to guarantee safety during this severe weather as they get ready for the cold wave ahead. Navigating these difficult circumstances depends critically on the community’s combined effort as well as the proactive steps the city takes.
To learn about all the programs taken by the City of Dallas, click here.
