DALLAS — Temps are dropping tonight and tomorrow night in North Texas. A freeze warning in a place for a vast portion of the region, with many places expecting to drop to the low teens.
To make sure your house, car, kids, and pets are all OK, here are a few things to think about tonight.
People — When temps drop, certain populations are more vulnerable. Keep an eye on kids and make sure they are dressed correctly. Also, take the time to check on your elderly neighbors.
Pets — Keep your pets inside, especially overnight, when temps dip close to or below freezing.
Pipes — Protect exposed pipes from cold by wrapping them and cover exterior faucets.
Sprinklers — Don’t run your sprinklers (you probably haven’t needed them in the last couple weeks) as they can cause icy patches on the roads and sidewalks.
Plants — To make sure outdoor plants are protected, move potted pots closer to the house to provide more heat.
For plants in the ground add mulch to protect the plants' roots, water before a freeze helps hold in warmth, cover with a sheet or burlap (not plastic) and remove when the sun comes up.
Ceiling fans — change their direction so they push warm air down. According to Home Depot, fans should rotate clockwise during the winter months and should be on the lowest speed setting.
Using fans correctly could save 15% on your energy bill, Home Depot says.
RELATED: Check the latest forecast
Tire pressure — Changes in temperatures can affect your tire pressure; you should check yours and add air if necessary.
Car battery — Cold weather can be more of a drain on your battery. Check the last time yours was replaced and consider getting it tested.
Fireplaces and furnaces — Make sure to have your heating and chimneys cleaned and inspected every year. And experts recommend testing your heating system during the day to ensure it's working properly.
Also, never use your oven to heat your home.
Reduce drafts — A draft dog is another way to keep your home warm. By placing it at the bottom of doors, it keeps cold air our. If you don't have one, towels work just as well.
Space heaters — A popular way to way to warm up, space heaters should be at least 3 feet from any furniture or fabric. Also, make sure your heater is plugged into the wall and not an extension cord.