The temperatures prepare to tumble below freezing tomorrow.  The forecast calls for lows in the 20s through much of next week.  That means some additional precautions will be needed.  While most people have already made the milk, bread, and toilet paper run, don’t forget to check on your neighbors who may need assistance as the bone-chilling temps set in.  Also, if you have pets you should bring them inside if possible.  If not, make sure they have extra food and water and a warmer place to shelter.  AAA-Kansas also reminds residents to make the effort to prevent frozen or burst pipes which can result not only in discomfort, but also in expensive repairs.  

 

The insurance division of AAA offers some tips.  

 

Preventing Frozen Pipes:

 

• Make sure everyone in your family knows where the water shut-off valve is and how it works.
• Insulate pipes in your home's crawl spaces and attic, even if you live in an area where freezing temperatures are unlikely.
• Seal gaps around pipes that allow cold air inside. You also should look for air leaks around electrical wiring, clothes dryer vents and pipes. Use caulk or insulation to keep the cold out.
• Disconnect garden hoses. If possible, use an indoor valve to shut off and drain water from pipes leading to outside faucets. This reduces the chance that pipes inside the house will freeze.
• If a freeze is expected, consider allowing warm water to drip slightly overnight, preferably from a faucet on an outside wall. Even a slight trickle may keep your pipes from freezing.
• When there is the possibility of a freeze, don’t turn down the thermostat at bedtime. Instead, maintain the same setting day and night. Drops in temperature, which are more common overnight, could freeze your pipes.
• Open cabinet doors. This will allow heat to reach uninsulated pipes located under sinks.
• AAA Travel agents report that this is a busy time for travelers looking for good deals or trips to warmer places. If you’re going on vacation or leaving your home for an extended period of time, consider maintaining minimal heat to prevent freezing.

 

Recovering from Frozen Pipes:

 

• If you turn on your faucets and nothing comes out, your pipes are likely frozen. Don’t wait for them to burst. Take measures to thaw them immediately, or call a plumber for assistance.
• You may be able to use a hair dryer to thaw a frozen pipe. Begin by warming the section of pipe closest to the faucet, then work your way out toward the coldest part of the pipe.
• Never use a hair dryer or any electrical appliances in areas of standing water. You could be electrocuted.
• Never try to thaw a pipe with a torch or other open flame. It could cause a fire.
• If your water pipes have already burst, turn off the water at the main shutoff valve in the house, leave the water faucets turned on, and call a plumber.
• Mop up spills. You do not want the water to do more damage than it already has.
• Call your insurance company claims department as soon as you can. An insurance adjuster does not need to see the spill before you take action. However, the adjuster will want to inspect any damaged items.
• Make temporary repairs and take other steps to protect your property from further damage. Remove any carpet or furniture that can be further damaged from seepage.