Before freezing weather sets in:
* Review your homeowners insurance policy to ensure you have adequate protection and appropriate coverages.

Preventing damage:
* Make sure adult family members know how to shut off the main water valve.
* Insulate pipes, especially those close to outside walls, in attics or crawl spaces where the chance of freezing is greatest.  If you have an outside electrical water pump, don't forget to insulate it as well.
* Wrap pipes with heat tapes.
* Seal air leaks surrounding or near pipes.
* Remember to bring garden hoses in and turn off and drain water to outdoor spigots at the cutoff valve.
* If you have an outdoor pool or spa, check with the manufacturer on how to protect it from freezing.
* Keep heat at 55 degrees F or higher.
* Keep sink cabinet doors open to allow more heat to circulate around pipes underneath, particularly if located near exterior walls.
* If you need to be away from home, leave the heat on and have your water system, including hot water tanks, traps, etc., drained before you go.  Consider adding antifreeze to your system if you expect extreme cold or an extended vacancy.  Ask someone to check your house daily.

If your pipes freeze:
* Open all faucets.  Be sure drains are open (should you decide to leave) just in case.
* Remove insulation from affected pipes.  If possible, pour hot water over pipes, starting where exposure to the cold is greatest.  An electric hair dryer or heater can be used, but be sure to remove any flammable materials and do not leave any heat source unattended.  If these methods don't thaw your pipes, call your plumber.  Don't try to thaw popes with an open flame of any kind and do not electrify copper plumbing.

If your pipes burst:
* Shut off water immediately to prevent any further damage.
* Call your plumber.
* Take an inventory of any damaged property or possessions.  Do not dispose of any items without the prior approval of your insurance adjuster.

For more information or a no-obligation quote on your auto or home insurance, please contact:

Mitzi Keithly
Liberty Mutual Sales Representative
678-513-1864 ext. 206
mitzi.keithly@libertymutual.com
www.libertymutual.com/lm/mitzikeithly