Temperatures are dropping across Georgia. Please review these quick safety reminders from the Georgia Office of Insurance & Safety Fire to keep your family warm and prepared.
What’s happening
As colder weather moves into our area, Wilkinson County Schools is sharing winter-weather safety reminders for families. Guidance below is adapted from the Georgia Office of Insurance & Safety Fire (OCI).
How families can prepare
At Home
Check your heating system to ensure it’s working safely and efficiently.
Prevent frozen pipes: let vulnerable faucets slow-drip overnight and insulate pipes along exterior walls.
If you’ll be away, leave the thermostat set around the mid-60s or shut off the main water supply.
Fireplace/space heat: keep chimneys maintained; use screens; never leave space heaters unattended and keep them 3 feet from anything that can burn.
Carbon Monoxide & Generator Safety
Never use generators, grills, or camp stoves indoors or in a closed garage.
Install and test smoke and carbon-monoxide alarms on every level of your home.
On the Way to School
Bundle up for bus stops: coat, hat, and gloves—especially in early mornings.
Allow extra time for potential slick roads or bus delays.
Driving: slow down on bridges/overpasses, avoid sudden stops, and keep an emergency kit in your vehicle.
If Pipes Freeze or Burst
Turn off the water at the main valve, document damage with photos, and contact a licensed plumber.
Review your homeowners or renters insurance for potential coverage; contact your insurer with questions.
District Notifications
We will monitor conditions and communicate any changes to schedules or dismissal procedures through:
District website & app alerts
Automated calls/SMS
District and school social media pages
Helpful Links (OCI)
Georgia Office of Insurance & Safety Fire – Winter Safety Tips: oci.georgia.gov
Space Heater & Home Heating Safety: oci.georgia.gov
Insurance Questions & Consumer Services: oci.georgia.gov
Last updated: November 10, 2025
Source: Georgia Office of Insurance & Safety Fire (OCI)