Easy Ways To Prevent Frozen Water Pipes

The Poudre Fire Authority released a list of tips to keep water pipes from freezing during these frigid temperatures. Don't let frozen water pipes become a disaster in your home this winter.

Poudre Fire Authority released the following information today:

The most recent deep-freeze in the Fort Collins area is supposed to give way to temperatures above freezing starting this Wednesday. Why is this important? This is when water pipes, including fire sprinkler systems, tend to thaw if they have frozen over the past few days. The corresponding water damage can wreak havoc on both structural areas and contents of any building.

Here are some tips to help prevent frozen water pipes and what to do if they burst.

-Remove any hoses attached to outside faucets.
-Insulate any water pipes that cannot be drained for the winter such as a lawn sprinkler system.
-Install heat tape around any water line that cannot be insulated.
-Keep thermostat set no lower than 55 degrees.
-Know where the main water shutoff is located.
- NEVER USE ANY OPEN FLAME, INCLUDING PROPANE TORCHES TO THAW FROZEN PIPES.
- If you cannot shut off the water and/or there could be some structural damage, call 911.

These recommendations are not meant to be all inclusive. For more information regarding protecting or thawing pipes, contact your local hardware store.