LENAWEE CO. — Officials across Lenawee County are reminding residents to take extra precautions during periods of extreme cold to prevent frozen or burst water lines.
Officials advise keeping homes heated to at least 65 degrees, noting that pipes inside walls are exposed to much colder temperatures than living spaces. Cabinet doors under sinks should be opened to allow warm air to circulate, and both hot and cold faucets should be left dripping slowly during severe cold to keep water moving.
Residents are encouraged to locate their home’s water shut-off valve in advance and make sure it is working. Outdoor spigots and exposed pipes should be insulated, and homes left unattended should have thermostats set no lower than 55 degrees.
Officials warn residents not to wait for frozen pipes to burst. If water stops flowing or pipes freeze and the issue may be on the utility side of the service line, residents should contact their local public works department.
Water emergencies should be reported to local officials during business hours or through after-hours emergency lines when offices are closed.