Tips

Each tax filing season, scammers pose as IRS agents to trick residents into sharing personal information. By sharing this information, your life savings could be compromised. Avoid tax scams with these helpful tips: Choose tax preparers with caution and research before handing over your information Watch for unsolicited emails, texts, and fake websites that might prompt you to click a link or share personal information Be on alert for phone scams; IRS representatives will never demand payments over the phone or leave threatening messages If you suspect fraudulent tax activity, report it to the IRS. You can also report fraud…

Many homeowners rely on septic systems to treat household wastewater. Septic systems separate solids in the tank and filter liquids through the drain field. When maintained, septic systems are effective and environmentally friendly. However, neglected systems can cause slow drains, gurgling toilets, or wet spots in the yard. A failing system may overflow, allowing raw sewage to reach nearby waterways and threaten public health. The best prevention is routine care: Pump your tank every three to five years Don’t pour fats, oils, and grease down drains Avoid flushing anything other than toilet paper and human waste Learn more about protecting…

Why pay to water your flower beds when rain is free? Learn about water conservation through rainwater harvesting and how it can save you money on your water bill at the Rain Barrel Water Workshop on Saturday, February 28, from 10:00 am to noon at the Grayson Senior Center. Registration is required.Classes fill up quickly and a $40 pre-payment is required to take home your new rain barrel. To register and learn about other upcoming workshops, visit the Events and Workshops page. (A)Water Saving -- Tips : (1) Inside the Home Fix Leaks Immediately: A leaky toilet can waste 200 gallons a day. To check,…

Smoking materials remain one of the leading causes of home fires, and many of them start from cigarettes that weren’t fully extinguished.Firefighters want you to remember to:Make sure cigarettes and ashes are completely coolDouble-check that smoking materials are fully extinguishedUse water or sand before throwing them awayNever toss cigarette butts in mulch, leaves, planters, or trash cans without soaking them first. One small ember can start a major fire.

Do you know how to turn your water off at the meter? With prolonged periods of freezing temperatures still in our future, be prepared with this knowledge in the event of a burst pipe. Shutting off the water quickly can help you avoid damage to your home. 

Back on the roads today?Roads may look clear, but hidden hazards can remain after winter weather, especially on bridges, overpasses, and shaded areas.Before and during your drive:1. Slow down and leave extra following distance2. Watch for black ice in shaded spots3. Brake early and gently4. Stay alert for emergency vehicles and road crews5. Give yourself extra time and drive cautiously.

If you experience a power outage:• Use flashlights instead of candles• Keep generators outdoors only• Never use grills or gas stoves for heat• Report outages to your utility providerCarbon monoxide safety is critical during outages.Stay safe during a power outage by focusing on food preservation, generator safety, and electrical hazards.  Immediate Safety ActionsReport the Outage: Call your local utility provider immediately to report the blackout. Do not assume neighbors have already done so.Unplug Electronics: Disconnect computers, TVs, and large appliances to protect them from power surges when electricity is restored.Keep One Light On: Leave one lamp switched "on" so you will know exactly when the power returns.Avoid Candles: Use flashlights or battery-powered…

Looks wet. Drives slick. That’s BLACK ICE.Black ice forms when moisture freezes on road surfaces at or below freezing temperatures, making pavement appear wet instead of icy. Drivers should use extreme caution.If you don’t have to be on the roads, stay home.If driving is unavoidable, be sure to:• Slow down• Leave extra following distance• Brake gently and early• Avoid sudden turns• Keep headlights onInvisible danger. Real consequences.

Frozen water may look solid, but it is unpredictable and dangerous. Retention ponds, lakes, and other water features freeze unevenly due to water movement, changing depths, and temperature variations, making the ice weak even when it appears safe.These areas are commonly found in subdivisions, apartment communities, parks, shopping centers, office parks, and near roadways.To stay safe:• Keep children away from frozen water• Keep pets leashed and away from icy surfaces• Call 911 immediately if someone falls inFor more safety tips, visit GwinnettSafety411.com.

Be sure to protect your pipes during these freezing temperatures. Here’s how: • Let faucets drip slightly. Moving water is less likely to freeze • Open cabinet doors under sinks to allow warm air to circulate • Wrap exposed pipes in garages, crawlspaces, and exterior walls • Disconnect outdoor hoses and shut off exterior water lines if possible • Keep indoor temperatures consistent, even overnight A few simple steps now can help prevent frozen or burst pipes later.