The City of Winder Utilities Department wants customers to be prepared for the upcoming cold weather by taking steps to conserve natural gas and avoid damaged plumbing.

Before temperatures drop below freezing, customers should insulate or cover exposed pipes to protect them from freezing, said Utilities Director Horace Gee. “It’s also important to turn off outside faucets and disconnect water hoses as well as locating your master shutoff valve in case a pipe bursts.”

For after-hours emergencies, such as a water main break, please call 770-867-3106.

For the City’s natural gas customers, the forecasted temperatures in the teens will increase energy usage for heating homes. 

To conserve natural gas and ultimately save on the winter utility bills, customers can:

• Adjust and insulate the water heater.
• Wash clothing using the cold setting.
• Install a smart thermostat.
• Add insulation to your home.
• Seal up areas around doors, windows, and other openings to the outside.

This information comes on the heels of the Tuesday Afternoon Executive Order enacted by Governor Brian Kemp, issuing a State of Emergency for winter weather beginning Thursday through Sunday.

Fort Yargo will have a warming station to assist stranded motorists and homeowners who may lose power. Georgia State Parks are opening warming stations for public use. ParkPass fees will be waived for those using warming stations. To find a full list of warming stations and their availability, please refer to the map and spreadsheet here: https://gastateparks.org/Alerts.