SAVANNAH, Ga. (WSAV) – Gov. Brian Kemp declared a statewide emergency for Georgia through Tuesday, with winter weather expected to impact the state beginning Friday. South Carolina Gov. Henry McMaster also issued an executive order for transportation waivers. There's no doubt that those in the Lowcountry and Coastal Empire have felt it — the drop this week to freezing temperatures that are here to stay. And with that comes freezing pipes and safety concerns. You may have grown up with being told to turn off your water, but now, officials ask you to do the exact opposite. Turning on the faucet could save you from a hefty bill. To snow or not to snow: End of this week compared to 2018 snowstorm Local officials and plumbers are all urging residents to take important steps to protect their homes this week. To avoid costly damage from frozen pipes, you should make sure any faucet in your house drips overnight. This includes exterior walls of your home, like hoses, or outdoor faucets, such as your dock. Outdoor faucets should be shut off and drained completely. To protect faucets from splitting, you can wrap them with a towel and use duct tape. Henry Plumbing Co. is a family-owned plumbing business in Savannah that has spanned three generations and eventually will continue to four generations. Henry Plumbing shared with WSAV that they receive the most calls for help with freezing pipes when temps stay below freezing for more than three days. "To keep your system from freezing. That's why the whole purpose of dripping pipes and protecting them, is to keep your system from freezing. From splitting and causing damage to your house or your property. It can be very costly depending on how long the water has been running is how much damage can be done inside your house or on the exterior of your house," said Todd Reed, CEO of Henry Plumbing in Savannah. Residents are also reminded: minimize outdoor time for their pets and check on vulnerable neighbors. Georgia Power recommends setting thermostats to 68 degrees or lower for energy savings. Winter weather safety checklist: Let faucets drip overnight Keep cabinet doors open to ensure pipes stay warm. Set thermostats to at least 50°F, even when away from home. Use products like pipe sleeves or heat tape, and seal cracks with caulk. Drain outdoor faucets and use covers for protection. For water issues, the city of Savannah offers support by calling 311. If your pipes do freeze, know where your emergency shutoff valve is located so you can use it.