The National Weather Service in Slidell forecasts freezing temperatures throughout Pearl River County on Tuesday night, with a projected low of 23 degrees in Picayune.

To prepare for these conditions, the National Weather Service advises dressing in layers and remaining aware of hypothermia symptoms such as shivering and confusion.

For those staying indoors, the NWS stresses the importance of safety when using a portable heater, which can become a fire hazard with poor placement and ventilation. There is also a risk of carbon monoxide poisoning.

Any exposed outdoor pipes should be covered to prevent freezing and bursting. Opening the cabinets to any indoor pipes will help warm air to circulate, and leaving the faucet running with a slight drip will relieve pressure building within the pipe. This will not keep the water from freezing, but it will help prevent the pipe from bursting in the event that the water freezes.

The American Veterinary Medical Association urges pet owners to bring all animals indoors, since dogs and cats are susceptible to frostbite and hypothermia just as humans are. The AVMA also suggests checking for animals that seek shelter under the hoods of vehicles before starting the engine. Making noise or honking the horn before cranking could prevent injuries to animals that went searching for warmth next to a warm motor.

Cold-sensitive plants should also be covered to prevent frost from killing the plant.  Gardening Know How’s website states that it is important to never cover the plant directly with plastic, as this could cause damage, and instead recommends covering with a cloth material. It is also important to uncover the plant after it warms in the morning to avoid condensation from building up and refreezing when it gets cold again.