03 Jan Upstate Headlines: Baby, It’s (FREEZING) Outside! Tips for Low Temps in the Upstate & Other News
A collection of the top Upstate headlines for the week of January 3rd, 2018
Stay Warm…and Stay Safe
With freezing Upstate temperatures, it’s important to take steps towards safety…and warmth! While you’re pulling out the spare blankets from your closets, and making hot tea, remember check on a few things:
- Protect Your Pipes –
Frozen pipes can lead to burst pipes. To prevent this, open up the cabinets that are underneath your sinks to let warm air flow in. Also, if you are home, let cold water drip from the faucet to prevent freezing. Find more tips here.
- Use Caution With Space Heaters –
Though space heaters are an excellent way to provide extra warmth, they are also a leading cause of house fires. Remember to never leave them unattended, and to keep them within a 3 feet distance of anything flammable. More tips on space heater safety here.
- Check on Friends and Family, Especially Elderly –
Freezing temperatures can be dangerous for individuals who are not accustomed to such weather. Because our bodies loose heat faster the older we get, these conditions can be especially risky for older adults. Make sure to check on your friends and neighbors to ensure their heat is working and they are safe.
- Donate Extra Blankets and Coats to Homeless Shelters –
Upstate homeless shelters quickly run out of needed items like thick blankets, sleeping bags, and large coats during bouts of freezing weather. If you have any extra items laying around, your donations are greatly appreciated. Learn more about donating here.
Jones Gap is known as one of the most-loved spots for hiking, gorgeous views, and outdoor recreation. Because of it’s popularity, the parking lots are often filled to the brim during warmer months.
The increasing capacity issues have led the The Nature Conservancy Conservation group to take steps towards expansion. 955 acre property has been purchased that will increase the size of the park by 25%. Outdoor lovers, get excited!
Survey Shows Spartanburg Leaves a Good Impression
A 2017 survey revealed that visitors leave Spartanburg with a positive impression of the city. In addition to visitors enjoying their stay in Sparkle City, the town has also grown in the percentage of familiarity as a travel destination.
Chris Jennings, executive vice president of the Spartanburg Convention and Visitors Bureau, shares the Bureau’s encouragement of the positive change, and their plans to continue to move forward.
