As LSU students prepare for predicted freezing temperatures, possible snow and a day off school, the university reminds students of important tips for this uncharacteristic weather.

A winter storm warning has been issued for south Louisiana from midnight Tuesday until midnight Wednesday. LSU Residential Life sent students an email with suggestions to fully prepare them for the freezing temperatures, applicable to students living on and off campus.

ResLife suggests thermostats should be set to a minimum of 65 degrees to prevent freezing pipes. Dripping your faucet, meaning letting cold water slowly drip from the faucet, is also essential to the prevention of pipe freezing. ResLife notes that students should alternate between using hot and cold water because they run through different pipes.

Opening kitchen and bathroom cabinets to get warm air in and out to circulate plumbing, moving furniture away from heat sources and keeping windows locked to retain heat are also recommended during cold weather.

It is not recommended to drive during winter conditions. Because Louisiana does not have salt trucks like other states, roads could be icy. If driving is necessary, the LSU Office of Emergency Preparedness suggests reducing speed and keeping an emergency kit with blankets, snacks and other goods in vehicles, per an email sent to students Friday. Students should check the vehicle’s antifreeze and park in a sheltered location.

LSU has closed campus for Tuesday Jan. 21, with professors given the choice of online or asynchronous classes. Residential halls will remain open, but students should check for adjusted hours for the dining halls.
Watch for email updates from the university for further information as the Office of Emergency Preparedness continues to monitor the weather.