ADEM suggests faucet precautions ahead of winter weather

A Message from the Alabama Department of Environmental Management:

As the state prepares for a significant winter storm event, water utilities will face increased consumer demand from dripping faucets and leaks from frozen pipes as they thaw.

As an alternative to leaving outdoor faucets dripping during a hard freeze, water customers should consider installing insulated covers that protect these fixtures during very cold weather. Insulated covers are inexpensive, easy to install, and available at home improvement centers and hardware stores.

If water service is not imperative at your building during this time, you are urged to turn off the water at the meter, drain the water lines at the lowest spigot on the property, leaving the faucet on, and turn the water back on after the outside temperature rises above 32 degrees.

As pipes thaw, the public can help by checking for leaks inside and outside of their homes or businesses. If leaks are found, they should shut off the water supply until the leaks are repaired. Customers are urged to contact their local water supplier if they have a major leak and are unable to shut off their water supply.