Officials urge public to check on vulnerable family members and property during cold snap [Video]

As cold weather approaches, safety officials in the Inland Northwest are emphasizing the importance of preparing for below-freezing temperatures. The community has experienced the damaging effects of extreme cold in the past.

Last January, the Post Falls Library and other businesses, including Goodwill, suffered significant water damage due to burst pipes. The library faced the destruction of around 10,000 books as temperatures dropped below zero.

Kyle Foreman from the Grant County Sheriff’s Office highlights the importance of preventing pipes from freezing.

Foreman advises residents to keep their heat on and set no lower than 55 degrees to prevent freezing. If pipes do freeze, he recommends shutting off the water. He warns against using open flame to heat up cold pipes.

“There’s no better way to burn down your house than doing that,” Foreman added.

Foreman also stresses the need to protect oneself during cold weather. He urges residents to check …