Forecasters are predicting a deep freeze overnight, with temperatures remaining at or below freezing for an extended period of time.

Residents are reminded to bring their pets inside, protect their pipes and plants, and check on elderly family members or neighbors.

Regarding pipes, the City of Lake Charles Utilities Division advises residents that if their home is not on a slab and/or they have exposed or uninsulated pipes, they should take the necessary steps to protect them. 

The Lake Charles Police Department encourages residents to exercise extreme caution when traveling the roadways this holiday weekend. 

Should rainy weather persist, ice forming on roadways and local bridges could occur. As a result, City of Lake Charles Public Works Streets Division crews are prepared for the possible need to close the Shattuck Street and Enterprise Boulevard overpasses if conditions become unsafe for travel.

Local public safety agencies would like to remind residents that should these closures become necessary, emergency services will not be affected.

The Lake Charles Fire Department reminds residents to take precautions if using portable space heaters. Be sure there are no blankets, bedding or other flammable materials within a three-foot radius of the heater. Space heaters should also be kept away from children and pets. These units should have an automatic shut-off and should always be plugged directly into the outlet. Heaters should not be left unattended when on.

Should power be lost, and residents need to use portable generators, it is important to remember to place these generators outside, away from the home and in a well-ventilated area.

For more information on City of Lake Charles services, call (337) 491-1346. To connect with community resources, dial 211. As always, in the event of an emergency, dial 911.