What to do with Zero temperatures these days that leads to frozen water pipes in area homes and businesses, causing sprinkler alarms to go off, water mains to break and leaving homeowners hard-pressed to find an available plumber?

If you're on a public water system, the main shut-off valve will usually be inside the house on the wall closest to the street near the water meter.

Pipes that run against exterior walls that have little or no insulation are also subject to freezing.

Do not use an open flame, an electric welder or electric heat tape.

A hot water supply line can freeze just as a cold water supply line can freeze if the water is not running through the pipe and the water temperature in the pipe is cold.

When the break is fixed, make sure the area around the pipe gets plenty of air circulation so that nearby insulation and other building materials have a chance to dry.

If the pipes split, turn off the water and your water heater immediately. Use leak clamps as a temporary solution.

Other tips include covering your outside pipes with a towel or sheet for insulation and keep your sinks dripping just a bit. These will keep your pipes from freezing.

Water