How to stop your pipes from freezing

EVERETT — A record cold snap has hit Snohomish County this week, causing pipes to freeze and burst at several schools in Snohomish County.

Here’s what homeowners can do to if the same happens to them:

Preventing frozen pipes

Before cold weather sets in, the American Red Cross recommends:

• Draining and storing hoses indoors;

• Adding insulation to attics, basements and crawl spaces;

• And installing sleeves around water pipes.

Garage doors should be kept closed if there are water supply lines located there, while kitchen and bathroom cabinet doors should be kept open to allow warm air to circulate to indoor pipes. Let cold water drip from the faucet. Even a trickle can help prevent freezing.

Thawing Pipes

If you turn on a faucet and only a trickle comes out, suspect a frozen pipe, according to the American Red Cross. In this case, keep the faucet open so water flows through, and apply heat to the pipes using electric devices like a heating pad, hair dryer or portable space heater. Another option is to wrap towels soaked in hot water around the pipes. Do not use a blowtorch or other open flame device.