Freeze warning in effect overnight

By William D'Urso

Published Saturday, Nov. 10, 2012 | 6:40 p.m.

Updated Sunday, Nov. 11, 2012 | 10:36 a.m.

The National Weather Service has issued a freeze warning for Southern Nevada, lasting until 8 a.m. Sunday. Lows of 26 to 32 degrees are forecast across the region, which could put sensitive plants at risk.

Trace amounts of snow were reported in Summerlin and other parts of the valley Saturday while high winds and temperatures just under 50 degrees kept spectators at the Aviation Air Show chilled.

While overnight temperatures are expected to drop into the 20s, the weather service reports that Veterans Day should be sunny and calm, with an expected high of 52 degrees.

For ways to keep safe and warm when freezing temperatures approach, the Las Vegas Fire Department has a few suggestions:

• When a furnace is used for the first time of the season, dust that has collected over the spring and summer will burn, causing a strong smell and possibly a light haze or white smoke. This is common and not harmful.

• Clean ashes out of fireplaces, but be careful because they can sometimes retain heat for several days.

• Water pipes may freeze. If your pipes do freeze, do not use a torch to warm them. The sudden increase in temperature will cause the ice to expand and possibly explode.

• Do not use extension cords with electric space heaters. They could overheat and start a fire.

• Do not use barbecues inside. The carbon monoxide produced from the fuel is harmful.

• Do not let you car run in the garage to heat up unless the door is open. If the door is closed, harmful carbon monoxide could accumulate.

• Never run an electric generator or other fossil fuel appliance in the home, including the garage. These devices produce harmful carbon monoxide gas.

• Be aware of any moisture on the roadways, especially at night. Water from lawn sprinklers on the road at night can freeze, causing the roadway or sidewalks to be icy. Remember that bridges and underpasses freeze faster than regular road surfaces. Even the smallest amount of moisture can cause the road surface to be hazardous.