As winter approaches in Apex, North Carolina, students, families, and staff at Apex High School need to be prepared for the colder climates. While North Carolina winters are often mild, temperatures here can drop into the 20s or lower on the coldest days. This kind of weather can lead to frozen pipes, icy roads, and power outages, making life a bit more challenging. Taking some extra steps now to winterize your home and vehicles can make a big difference in staying safe and comfortable all season long.

One of the biggest risks during very cold weather is frozen pipes, which can burst and cause serious damage to your home. This could lead to students at Apex High to not have access to water leading to many issues including not being able to get ready in the morning, no drinking water and could lead to mold growth getting them sick. To prevent this, it’s smart to insulate any exposed pipes in places like garages, attics, and basements. According to the American Red Cross, letting a small trickle of water run through your pipes on the coldest days can help keep them from freezing.

Another smart preparation is checking your home’s heating system. Getting a tune-up on your heating system before winter sets in can help ensure it works efficiently. This helps keep your house warm and can prevent costly emergency repairs in the middle of a freeze.

Cold weather can also affect car batteries, tires, and fluids, so it’s important to winterize your vehicle so you always have a ride to and from school. Progressive Insurance explains that a weak battery might work fine now, but as soon as the temperature drops, you could be stuck with a car that won’t start it recommends checking your battery, replacing windshield wipers, and making sure you have antifreeze to keep your engine from freezing.

It’s also a good idea to keep a winter emergency kit in your car. Include items like blankets, a flashlight, jumper cables, and even a bag of sand or kitty litter to help with traction if you get stuck. A student who graduated from Apex High last year, Fernando, says, “Last year I had to wait in my car for over an hour after it broke down during a winter storm warning after staying late for my club. Having extra blankets kept me comfortable while I waited.”

Power outages can happen during winter storms, so it’s a good idea to stock up on supplies. Keep extra blankets, flashlights, and batteries in a convenient spot. Non-perishable foods, bottled water, and a first-aid kit are also good to have on hand in case the power is out for an extended period. Some families in Apex are investing in solar power, which maintains energy that then can be used during these outages to power essentials like heaters, refrigerators, and chargers.

Even though major snowstorms are rare, icy roads are still a big concern in North Carolina. Pay attention to weather alerts, and if roads are icy, stay off them whenever possible on your way to Apex High School. The National Weather Service recommends keeping a cell phone charged and planning alternate routes to avoid risky conditions. During severe winter weather, Apex High School sends out updates through email and social media to keep students and staff informed. 

By taking these precautions, families and students at Apex High can be ready for the colder months. From winterizing pipes to keeping emergency supplies on hand, preparing now can help prevent the worst of winter’s challenges. These simple steps can help you avoid unexpected problems and stay safe and warm throughout the season.