01/24/2026
Dear Bousa Properties Residents,
We are closely monitoring the weather forecast, which is currently calling for a potential snow and ice storm this weekend. While we hope for minimal impact, we want to ensure all of our tenants are prepared and safe should conditions worsen.
Please take time to review the preparedness checklist below and complete as many steps as possible before the storm arrives.
BEFORE THE STORM (24–48 HOURS AHEAD)
Charge all phones, power banks, tablets, and rechargeable lanterns.
Fill vehicle gas tanks in case stations lose power.
Obtain cash in small bills in case card systems go down.
Pick up prescriptions and essential medications early.
Download movies, books, and maps for offline use.
Identify one warm room in your home to “camp out” if power fails.
Locate your water shut-off valve and breaker box now.
Set refrigerator and freezer to colder settings to maintain temperature longer.
Contact fuel/oil companies to refill your tanks for heating purposes if they are low.
WATER AND PIPE PROTECTION
Drip faucets on exterior walls when temperatures drop below freezing.
Open cabinet doors under sinks to allow warm air circulation.
Disconnect garden hoses from outdoor spigots.
Cover outdoor faucets with insulated caps or towels.
Know how to shut off water quickly if a pipe bursts.
Fill jugs, buckets, or bathtubs with water for flushing and washing.
FOOD AND KITCHEN PREP
Keep 3–5 days of no-cook food (peanut butter, tuna, crackers, canned meats, fruit cups).
Have a manual can opener available.
Purchase shelf-stable or powdered milk if needed.
Freeze water bottles to act as freezer ice packs.
Keep a cooler ready if food needs to be moved outdoors.
Avoid stocking large amounts of perishables right before the storm.
HEAT AND HOME SAFETY
Gather extra blankets, sleeping bags, and warm layers.
If using a fireplace, confirm the chimney is clear and wood is dry.
Never run generators or grills inside homes or garages.
Test smoke and carbon monoxide detectors.
Have at least one flashlight per person with spare batteries.
Use battery lanterns instead of candles when possible.
VEHICLE AND TRAVEL
Avoid driving once freezing rain begins.
Bridges, overpasses, and shaded roads freeze first.
Keep emergency items in your vehicle (blanket, water, snacks, charger, gloves).
Replace old wiper blades and top off washer fluid.
Park away from large tree limbs when possible.
Expect potential flight and travel disruptions.
POWER OUTAGE PLAN
Unplug sensitive electronics to prevent surge damage.
Keep a battery radio or weather app for updates.
Use surge protectors for TVs and computers.
Know where local warming centers may be located.
Have extension cords ready if using a generator outdoors.
Keep refrigerator doors closed to preserve cold air.
PETS AND LIVESTOCK
Bring pets indoors with extra food and water.
Provide outdoor animals with unfrozen water sources.
Add straw or blankets to outdoor shelters.
Keep leashes and carriers accessible in case evacuation is needed.
MEDICAL AND SPECIAL NEEDS
Keep a written list of medications and dosages.
Store a basic first-aid kit with thermometer and medications.
Have backup batteries for medical devices.
Identify a location with power where you could relocate if necessary.
PROPERTY PROTECTION
Move vehicles away from trees or power lines.
Secure outdoor furniture and lightweight items.
Avoid trimming trees during the storm—do so beforehand.
Photograph property conditions for insurance documentation.
DURING THE STORM
Do not drive unless absolutely necessary.
Treat all downed power lines as live and dangerous.
Use only approved indoor heating methods.
Check on neighbors—especially elderly residents—by phone if possible.
Report outages to utility companies, not 911 unless it is an emergency.
AFTER THE STORM
Walk carefully as ice may refreeze overnight.
Check pipes for leaks as temperatures rise.
Discard refrigerated food if above 40°F for more than four hours.
Avoid DIY electrical repairs near downed lines.
Be patient—power restoration after ice events can take several days.
IMPORTANT NOTE ABOUT ICE EVENTS
A quarter inch of ice can cause scattered power outages.
Half an inch can severely impact travel and utilities for days.
Ice is often more dangerous than snow in southern regions.
Your safety is our top priority. We will communicate any property-specific updates as conditions evolve. If you experience an emergency maintenance issue related to the storm, please follow your normal maintenance reporting procedures.
Stay safe and prepared,
Jess & Jessica
