01/22/2026
As the big winter storm approaches, frozen pipes and ice dams pose a serious risk of costly water damage.
What to Do if Pipes Freeze:
If faucets run dry, keep them open and call a plumber.
Avoid using electrical appliances near standing water—risk of electrocution.
Never use an open flame to thaw pipes; it’s a fire hazard.
Use a hair dryer cautiously to warm pipes, starting near the faucet and moving toward the frozen section—avoid standing water.
If pipes burst, shut off your main water valve and leave faucets open. Know where your shutoff valve is before an emergency.
Contact your insurance company if damage occurs.
Prevent Frozen Pipes:
Let faucets drip during cold nights to keep water flowing.
Open cabinet doors to warm pipes under sinks and exterior walls.
Seal leaks that let cold air in.
Disconnect garden hoses and drain outdoor pipes.
Winterize pools by draining equipment and turning off freeze guards.
Keep your home heated to at least 55°F.
Note: Shutting off water can prevent freezing but disables fire sprinklers.
