With winter still keeping a grasp on temperatures, the Water and Sewer Commission reminds town residents to take preventative measures to keep pipes from freezing during extreme cold.
To help prevent frozen pipes, take the following
precautions:
• Check for open windows, air vents, and wind drafts near water pipes.
• Seal leaks in the basement foundation where cold air may enter; stuff holes
with insulation; a tiny opening my cause an exposed pipe to freeze.
• Allow a slow trickle of water to flow through faucets connected to water
pipes that run through unheated spaces.
• Keep sink cabinet doors open during cold spells to allow warm air to
circulate around the pipes.
• Insulate pipes in unheated spaces like garages, basements, and crawl
spaces.
• Turn off the water to your outside faucets and open the faucets to allow
them to drain.
• Turn off your sprinkler system and blow compressed air through the
lines to push any remaining water out.
• Locate the water shut off valve and know how to shut off water; if a pipe
bursts, shutting off the water promptly can help minimize the damage.
• The Water Department is available 24/7 – Call 781-631-0102
(Response times may vary – On average of 45 minutes)
• If your pipes freeze, use a hair dryer to thaw the lines safely; thawing will
not be fast, but it will be safe: NEVER USE AN OPEN FLAME TO THAW
PIPES
