Frozen Pipe Prevention Tips

If your water pipes freeze and break this winter, you'll have costly repairs on your hands and you'll lose precious water.

• INSULATE YOUR PIPES and replace wet insulation.

• WRAP OUTSIDE FAUCETS and keep the wrapping dry.

• ELIMINATE DRAFTS from cracks, windows, or doors near your pipes.

• DISCONNECT AND DRAIN all garden hoses.

• CHECK YOUR METER BOX COVER --and keep it closed. Make sure its not broken, displaced or missing. If it is, call Public Utilities, (757) 382-6352.

IF FREEZING TEMPERATURES ARE PREDICTED:

• Let a rapid drip of water run from the highest faucet in your house.

• Leave cabinet doors open under the sink, so room heat can reach pipes.

• Locate your shut-off valve so you can turn your water off if your pipes break. It may be located outside where the water supply enters your home, inside the garage or near the water heater

WINTER'S FREEZE MAY HIT IN SPITE OF YOUR BEST EFFORTS, SO IF YOUR PIPES DO FREEZE . . .

• TURN YOUR WATER OFF at the shut-off valve. When they thaw, they may break, losing precious water and costing you money!

• NEVER TRY TO THAW FROZEN PIPES WITH AN OPEN FLAME!! Its dangerous and could cause damage. Call your plumber.