Caddo Parish Sheriff Steve Whitehorn is urging residents to take precautions as winter weather impacts the area. The sheriff emphasized the importance of checking on elderly neighbors, noting that cold temperatures increase the risk of hypothermia, a potentially life-threatening condition.

According to the Caddo Parish Sheriff’s Office, symptoms of hypothermia may include confusion, fatigue, shivering, and numbness. Residents are encouraged to seek medical attention if these symptoms are observed.

To assist individuals experiencing homelessness, warming centers will be available at several locations, including the Shreveport Bossier Rescue Mission at 901 McNeil Street, Hope Connections at 2350 Levy Street, and The Highland Center at 520 Olive Street, which will be open from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.

The Sheriff’s Office also shared several indoor safety recommendations to help residents stay safe during cold weather. Officials advise ensuring that fuel-burning appliances are properly ventilated and inspected to prevent carbon monoxide poisoning, using electric heaters cautiously to avoid fire or shock hazards, and keeping flammable materials at least three feet away from heat sources. Residents are also encouraged to use only heating equipment approved for indoor use and to insulate exposed pipes to prevent freezing.

Pet owners are reminded to take extra precautions for animals during cold weather by providing warm shelter, removing hazardous substances such as antifreeze from accessible areas, and tapping on vehicle hoods before starting engines to ensure animals are not hiding inside.

The Caddo Parish Sheriff’s Office said it will continue monitoring winter conditions and will provide emergency updates through its Facebook and Instagram pages, as well as through push notifications on the Caddo Sheriff’s App.