As the Lakewood region endures record cold weather for an extended period of time, there have been many reported incidents of frozen and/or busted pipes, some resulting in flooding and extensive water damage.

The Lakewood Township Municipal Utilities Authority (MUA) and New Jersey American Water (NJAW) urge residents and property owners to take simple, precautionary measures to prevent frozen and busted pipes; and appropriately respond if these do occur. This will prevent an inestimable amount of stress and monetary loss:

• Maintain a warm temperature (minimum 55 degrees) indoors 24/7, even when no one is home.
• Identify any pipes or water lines in unheated areas (garage, exterior walls, basement, etc.) and wrap with insulation or heat tape.
• Leave faucets on in sinks (as well as tub spouts and showerheads, if possible) that are not going to be used on a regular basis, especially during freezing temperature conditions. Even a slight, consistent drip of water can prevent frozen pipes.
• Identify the water main shut-off valve inside your home, so that you can promptly access it if necessary.
• In the event of a frozen and/or busted pipe, immediately shut the main water shutoff valve inside your home; or, if possible, the shutoff valves that control the affected plumbing. Contact a professional plumber to safely restore functionality and/or repair damage.

“Running some drops of water and other cheap, easy solutions – now – can prevent thousands of dollars or more of damage later on,” says Justin Flancbaum, Executive Director of the MUA. “We thank our residents for their cooperation and proactivity during this rough winter season.”

“Frozen pipes are one of the most common — and most preventable — winter water emergencies,” explains Chelsea Kulp, Director of Communications and External Affairs for NJAW. “We’re grateful to Lakewood Township for helping guide residents on how to prevent damage and keep the water flowing all season.”

P.S. NJAW has provided a free printable tag for indoor main water shut off valves, so that they can be easily identified and operated when necessary.