As much of the United States deals with a stretch of frigid weather, it is important to know how to keep your home’s plumbing safe from freezing. When water freezes, it expands, which could damage your home’s water pipes.

To avoid a plumbing emergency, the American Society of Civil Engineers says, “Three steps to take are installing frost-free hose bibs for outside spigots, leaving a faucet dripping to keep water moving through pipes, and ensuring any outside piping or pipes that can be exposed to cold air are wrapped with foam insulation. Foam insulation and hose bibs can be purchased at any hardware store.”

ProtectYourPipes.org, a collaborative initiative among water and wastewater utilities in Washington, D.C., Maryland, and Virginia, offers helpful tips to keep your pipes safe, including:

• Locate your shut-off valves in case of an emergency.
• Open cupboards and vanities to warm pipes.
• Open outside spigots to allow water to drain.

AWWA has some additional tips for your consideration on its Caring for Pipes page.