Greene County Emergency Management Director Roger Axe is advising residents to prepare now for subzero temperatures expected next week. 

“Next week there will be no doubt Old Man Winter is here,” Axe wrote in a press release. 

While weather is permissible, Axe recommends ensuring food, fuel, and medication supplies are adequate. 

“Visit the grocery store, top off your vehicle tank, and renew your prescriptions,” Axe said. 

Axe recommends mobile homeowners check heat tapes to keep water pipes from freezing. It’s also recommended to leave a small stream of water running from the spout, about the size of a pencil lead, to prevent water pipes from freezing. 

Have an ice scraper, stray de-icer, and gas line anti-freeze for vehicles. 

“Spray the inside door locks on your vehicles to keep them from freezing shut. If possible, during the coming cold snap, leave your vehicle unlocked to better get the doors open,” Axe wrote. “Park your vehicles facing out so you can pull out better and avoid getting stuck in snow.” 

During the cold snap, emergency management recommends residents limit driving to necessity only and avoid unnecessary travel. 

“If you must travel, have your cell phone charged. Carry a blanket, a towel, an extra pair of socks to change and dry your feet if they get wet, and a flashlight,” Axe wrote. If you get stuck in snow, make sure your tail pipe is clear of snow or carbon monoxide can feed back into your vehicle. Run your engine every hour for 20 minutes and during that time, crack your window to again protect against carbon monoxide as you wait for rescue.” 

Per the press release, let people know you are traveling so they can be on the lookout for you. 

“Keeping a roof over your head is not cheap these days. It is the time of year to stay in and appreciate your home and get your money’s worth,” Axe wrote. “It is also an ideal time to visit your library for a good book or movie Stay safe by staying in.”