Austin winter weather: How to keep your car safe in cold weather

HAYS COUNTY, Texas - Winter weather is here in Central Texas this week.

The cold spell continued Tuesday with parts of Central Texas waking up to a freeze for the second morning in a row. Precipitation is also expected to come through on Thursday and Friday.

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With it being so cold, the Hays County Sheriff's Office is offering safety tips for your vehicle:

• Keep a full gas tank: Keeping your tank at least half-full helps prevent condensation in the fuel lines, which can cause the engine to stall in colder temperatures.
• Check your tire pressure: Tire pressure can drop with colder temperatures, which can impact your car's handling and safety.
• Check your battery: Cold weather can reduce a battery's ability to hold a charge, so make sure your battery is in good condition, especially if it's older than three years.
• Properly heat and defrost your car: Make sure your vehicle's heater and defroster are working properly, as these features are essential for keeping your windshield clear and maintaining comfort during colder drives.
• Drive with caution: If you see ice on the road, be careful and drive cautiously; don't leave if you don't have to.

Carbon monoxide safety

AAA Texas is also warning drivers to prioritize safety when it comes to carbon monoxide.

Vehicle exhaust contains poisonous carbon monoxide gas, which can cause severe injury and even death if inhaled. According to the CDC, more than 400 Americans die each year from unintentional carbon monoxide poisoning not linked to fires, over 100,000 people visit emergency rooms, and more than 14,000 are hospitalized.

Drivers should:

• Never start or operate a vehicle in an enclosed area, such as a garage.
• Make sure the exhaust pipe isn’t clogged with snow, ice, or mud. A blocked exhaust could cause deadly carbon monoxide gas to leak into the passenger compartment when the engine is running.
• Never leave your vehicle unattended with the engine running.
• Have a mechanic check the exhaust system of your car or truck every year. A small leak in the exhaust system can lead to a build-up of carbon monoxide inside the car.
• Keep your gas tank at least half-full to avoid gas line freeze-up during winter months.
• Unplug phone chargers and USB cables for digital devices as soon as you turn off your engine.

Homeowners and renters should:

• Never use a gas range or oven to heat a home.
• Never run a generator, pressure washer, or any gasoline-powered engine inside a basement, garage, or other enclosed structure, even if the doors or windows are open, unless the equipment is professionally installed and vented. Keep vents and flues free of debris, especially if winds are high. Flying debris can block ventilation lines.
• Never use a charcoal grill, hibachi, lantern, or portable camping stove inside a home, tent, vehicle, or camper.
• If conditions are too cold, seek shelter with friends or at a community shelter.
• If carbon monoxide poisoning is suspected, consult a healthcare professional right away or call 911.

AAA Texas is also recommending drivers:

• Stay tuned to weather forecasts prior to a long-distance road trip and before driving in rural areas.
• Delay trips when especially bad weather is expected. 
• Let others know their intended route, destination, and estimated time of arrival before departing.

Track your local forecast for the Austin area quickly with the free FOX 7 WAPP. The design gives you radar, hourly, and 7-day weather information just by scrolling. Our weather alerts will warn you early and help you stay safe during storms.