Leavitt Group Texas Select Logo
Menu

Staying Safe During Severe Winter Weather in Texas

Written by Nathan Kurtin—Co-Owner, Executive Vice President

January 5, 2026

Blog Staying Safe During Severe Winter Weather in Texas

When winter weather hits Texas, it can catch many of us off guard. Freezing temperatures, snow, and ice are rare in our state, but when they do arrive, the impact can be widespread and dangerous.

Have questions?
Contact us today.

Phone: (281) 953-5200

By selecting 'Yes' you consent to receive conversational text / SMS messages from Leavitt Group Texas Select. Reply STOP to opt-out, reply HELP for support. Message and data rates apply. Messaging frequency may vary. Privacy policy

Please note: coverage cannot be bound or altered online. A service representative will need to contact you to finalize your request.

During recent winter storms, millions of Texans were left without power or heat as energy demand surged and the state’s power grid struggled to keep up. Hazardous road conditions made it difficult, or even impossible, to leave home safely. If you’ve been affected by the cold in recent years, here are a few tips to help you stay warm, safe, and as prepared as possible.

Safety Tips for Cold Weather and Power Outages

Use Generators with Caution

  • Operate generators outside, at least 20 feet from any doors, windows, or vents.
  • Keep generators dry and plug appliances in with heavy-duty, outdoor-rated extension cords.
  • Never run a generator in your garage, even with the door open—carbon monoxide buildup can be deadly.

Hold on to Household Heat

  • Close all doors and windows.
  • Keep blinds and curtains shut to hold in warmth.
  • Use rolled towels or blankets to block cold drafts from doors and windows.

Light Your Home Safely

  • Stick to battery-powered flashlights or lanterns.
  • Avoid candles if you can. If you must use them, never leave them unattended.

Keep Pipes from Freezing

  • Let your faucets drip slightly to keep pipes from freezing.
  • Open cabinet doors under sinks so warm air can circulate around pipes.
  • If your pipes freeze or break, use bottled water or melted snow as a last resort for hydration.

Watch Your Food Supply

  • Keep fridge and freezer doors closed to preserve perishable items.
  • If food looks or smells off, toss it instead of risking it!

Know the Warning Signs of Cold Exposure

Seek medical help right away if you or someone else experiences:

  • Shivering
  • Numbness or pale skin (especially fingers, toes, ears, or nose)
  • Confusion or slurred speech
  • Pain or color change when skin is rewarmed

Stay Home and Layer Up

  • Try to stay indoors as much as possible.
  • If you must go outside, wear layers and limit your time in the cold.
  • If driving is unavoidable, bring your cellphone and pack an emergency kit.

Need Help? Visit a Warming Center

If your home becomes too cold or unsafe, warming shelters across Texas are open to help. Click here to find a nearby location.

Reference: https://www.cdc.gov/disasters/winter/duringstorm/indoorsafety.html 

Have questions? Contact:

Nathan Kurtin

Nathan Kurtin

Co-Owner, Executive Vice President

Call: (713) 978-7811

I started in the insurance industry with my first job out of college at a family-owned insurance business in Houston, Texas. The office was very small, but it felt like home and was an amazing place where I built my foundation in insurance.

In 2001, I was fortunate to start my own agency with Nationwide, and from 2001 to 2024, I owned and operated Kurtin Insurance and Financial Services. Over those years, I had the pleasure of working with many clients who became friends and many employees whom I consider family.

In 2024, my agency affiliated with Leavitt Group Texas Select, where I’m currently responsible for leading our personal insurance department. I feel blessed to continue working with my clients and many of my Kurtin Insurance employees (family) who came to Leavitt Group with me.

I grew up in a small central Texas town and graduated from Texas A&M with a degree in industrial distribution. Community involvement is important to me, so I stay active by being part of St. John Vianney, the Knights of Columbus, and the FIND Discipleship group.

My wife and I have been married for over 23 years and love doing life together. In my free time, I enjoy tennis, golf, hunting, fishing, and traveling.

...

Read Nathan's full bio

We improve our products and advertising by using Microsoft Clarity to see how you use our website. By using our site, you agree that we and Microsoft can collect and use this data. Our privacy statement has more details.