PROTECT YOUR HOUSE FROM FROZEN, RUPTURED PIPES IN WINTER POWER OUTAGES:

If you have a backup heat source (like wood stove) or backup generator, GREAT - make sure they are ready. Flue cleaned, firewood stocked up. Generator serviced, tested & ready with sufficient fuel, safely stored. Transfer switch tested, too.

If your power goes out for an extended period in Winter cold and if your home starts to freeze, take the following steps as precaution against ruptured pipe damage (interior flooding).

SHUT OFF YOUR MAIN WATER SUPPLY which is usually in the crawl space, basement, out in the yard at meter, by hot water heater, etc. MAIN INLET VALVE. 👉 LOCATE IT IN ADVANCE.

Open all faucets including outdoor spigots, let everything drain.

THEN IF YOU SUSPECT YOUR PIPES DID FREEZE, when power comes back on, turn water on very slowly and have eyes👀 everywhere in case a ruptured pipe leaks. SHUT OFF IMMEDIATELY AGAIN and call a plumber to effect repair first.

DON'T FLOOD YOUR HOME