Extreme Cold Safety Reminders
The National Weather Service forecast calls for snow accumulation and extreme cold for the weekend, with bitterly cold wind chills possibly bottoming out at 15 to 25 below zero early Sunday. Residents are reminded of the below safety tips to help keep safe during extremely cold temperatures.
Tips to Help Avoid Frozen Pipes and What to Do If Your Pipes Freeze
Extreme cold can cause pipes to crack and burst. To avoid this expensive and damaging situation, Public Works reminds residents of the following tips:
- Leave water trickling.
- Open cabinets in order to expose water pipes to warm air, and to eliminate sources of cold air.
- If you experience frozen pipes, shut off the water immediately.
- Do not attempt to thaw frozen pipes unless the water is shut off. Freezing can often cause unseen cracks in pipes or joints.
- Avoid the use of kerosene heaters or open flames.
Anyone who experiences frozen pipes should turn the water off to their home. If you do not already know your home’s water shut off valve is located, it is recommended that you identify the valve’s location. In the event that a pipe bursts in your home and you cannot shut off the water, dial 9-1-1 and Village staff will be dispatched to shut off the water at the street connection.
More information is available at www.villageoflombard.org/winter. Extreme Cold and Water Main Breaks
Water main breaks are possible as the ground freezes and thaws in response to extreme temperatures. The Village of Lombard's Public Works Department is responsible for the maintenance and repair for approximately 195 miles of underground water mains. While most of these water mains do not freeze, when temperatures are well below twenty degrees outside, soil may contract and shift when it freezes, causing pipes to move and increasing the likelihood of a water main break and subsequent repair. Learn more on the Village’s website.