New Jersey Cold Weather Preparedness: Preventing Pipe Bursts and Staying Warm

Preparing for Bitter Cold

• ⚠️ Bitter cold temperatures are ahead, posing risks to humans, animals, and homes.
• 🏠 Preventative steps are crucial to avoid serious damage, especially to water pipes.
• 📞 Resources like 211.org or calling 211 are available for those needing information on warming centers.

Protecting Your Home's Water Pipes

• 💧 A major concern is pipes freezing and bursting, leading to costly repairs.
• 🛠️ Water utilities urge customers to disconnect and drain hoses, close and seal windows, and insulate water lines.
• 🔑 It's important to know the location of your home's water shut-off valves.

Expert Advice for Preventing Frozen Pipes

• 🌡️ Raise the heat inside your home, maintaining temperatures of at least 70 degrees Fahrenheit when it's zero or below outside.
• 🚪 Open cabinet doors in areas near outer walls (kitchens, bathrooms) to allow heat to circulate.
• 🌊 A slow drip from faucets might not be enough; running water more consistently can help prevent freezing.

Homeowner Water Meter Checks

• 📊 Check your water meter and ensure the valves on either side are functioning correctly.
• 🏷️ Label the main shut-off valve so all household members know its location.
• 📍 Locate your main water shut-off valve before the cold weather hits.