Winter weather has arrived and it is time to take precautions by protecting your pipes from freezing and bursting.

Frozen pipes can be prevented by following a few basic steps.

• Remove garden hoses from faucets.
• Cover exterior faucets with insulation.
• Cover exposed exterior pipes with foam rubber or fiberglass insulation and secure them with tape.
• Leave the thermostat at a minimum of 55°F.
• Open cabinet doors under sinks to allow heat to circulate around pipes.
• Let cold and hot water faucets drip during freezing weather.
• Locate the main water shut-off valve so you can find it in an emergency.

 Prevention is the key and is well worth it to avoid water damage due to a broken pipe

 In the event of a broken pipe, it is critical to act quickly. Water from a broken pipe can add up to thousands of gallons in a very short time. It is likely that by the time the damage is discovered, entire rooms are flooded and walls are becoming wet.

•  Shut off the main water valve immediately.
• Call the plumber immediately.
• Mop up standing water on flooring surfaces, if possible.
• Open kitchen and bathroom cabinet doors to promote warm air circulation.
• Locate the frozen pipe and open a faucet.
• Call your insurance company. Your insurance company can recommend a licensed professional water damage clean up company.

 A water emergency can be a stressful situation that is easily avoided with proper prevention.