Sharp Surge in Dead Batteries and Burst Pipes Expected
Best advice: Stay off the roads unless absolutely necessary
OKLAHOMA CITY – Jan. 24, 2026 – With the winter storm and arctic blast impacting the region, AAA is warning drivers and homeowners to take immediate precautions to protect themselves and their property. Past storms of this intensity have triggered a dramatic spike in roadside assistance calls, especially for dead car batteries, and a wave of home insurance claims from frozen or burst pipes.
“Whenever the temperature drops this fast, we see an immediate surge in calls,” said Shawn Steward, spokesman for AAA Oklahoma. “From dead batteries and frozen locks to engines that simply refuse to start, cold weather creates all kinds of problems for drivers.
At the same time, homeowners face the threat of frozen pipes that can burst without warning and cause costly damage. Acting now isn’t optional. It’s essential.”
AAA Expects Spike in Dead Battery Calls
Cold weather severely reduces a battery’s ability to hold a charge. During past winter storms, AAA has seen battery‑related calls jump significantly, often becoming the number‑one reason members need roadside assistance.
AAA Tips to Prevent a Dead Battery
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Have your battery tested if it’s more than three years old.
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Park in a garage or sheltered area, if available, to reduce exposure to freezing temperatures.
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Turn off lights, seat warmers, and accessories before shutting off the engine.
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Pay attention to slow cranking as this is a key warning sign that your battery is failing.
Cold Weather Also Impacts Electric Vehicles. AAA urges EV drivers to prepare just as thoroughly as gas‑powered vehicle owners. Freezing temperatures can cut EV range by up to 40% and slow charging times.
AAA Tips for EV Drivers in Winter
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Pre‑condition the battery while plugged in to improve range and performance.
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Plan for reduced range and build extra buffer into every trip.
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Use heated seats and steering wheels instead of cabin heat to conserve energy.
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Keep the vehicle plugged in during extreme cold to help maintain battery temperature.
Homeowners Alert: Frozen Pipes Can Burst Without Warning
Extended periods of freezing temperatures put plumbing systems at risk. When water freezes, it expands, and that pressure can rupture pipes behind walls, under sinks, or in attics and crawl spaces.
AAA Tips to Prevent Frozen or Burst Pipes
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Let faucets drip slightly to keep water moving.
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Open cabinet doors under sinks to allow warm air to circulate.
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Keep the thermostat set to at least 55°F, even when away from home.
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Know where your main water shutoff valve is located in case a pipe bursts.
Additional AAA Winter Safety Reminders
AAA also encourages residents to take broader precautions as the storm approaches:
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Avoid driving unless necessary during icy or snowy conditions.
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Slow down and increase following distance.
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Keep an emergency kit in your vehicle with blankets, water, snacks, a flashlight, and a phone charger. An ice scraper, brush and shovel along with jumper cables, and sand or kitty litter for traction should all be considered essential this time of year as well.
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Check tire pressure as cold weather causes it to drop.
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Ensure wipers and washer fluid are winter‑ready.
AAA Stands Ready to Assist
“With extreme cold and winter conditions like this, preparation is everything,” Steward added. “A few simple steps can prevent a breakdown on the road or a disaster inside your home”
AAA encourages members to download the AAA mobile app for fast access to roadside assistance, weather alerts, and safety resources.
About AAA
AAA provides automotive, travel, and insurance services to more than 65.2 million members nationwide and more than 450,000 members in Oklahoma. AAA advocates for the safety and mobility of its members and has been committed to outstanding road service for more than 100 years. AAA is a non-stock, membership corporation working on behalf of motorists, who can map a route, find local gas prices and electric vehicle charging stations, discover discounts, book a hotel, and track their roadside assistance service with the AAA Mobile app (AAA.com/mobile) for iPhone, iPad and Android. For more information on joining or renewing a Membership, visit www.AAA.com.
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