What a week it has been here in East Dallas and across the state of Texas! I hope you are your loved ones are safe, warm and have suffered minimal to no damage from the freezing weather.
Here are some helpful tips if needed:
How to Prepare for the Days Ahead
Ruptured Pipes, and Mitigating Damages
- See this Page Link for information regarding valve boxes, on opening meter cover and how to turn off water valves.
- Know where your water main is located. Most cities have them in a meter box in your yard. It’s much easier than searching when it’s cold or dark outside and avoids the added anxiety that water may leak into your property.
- Maintain access to your main valve. Snow and ice buildup over the water main cover can greatly delay access and your ability to shut off the water quickly.
- Ensure you have the correct tools. Typically, this includes a meter cover key, a crescent wrench or a similar small pipe wrench.
- Turn the valve so it is crosswise to the pipe. Inline valves are generally in the “ON” position.
- Consider shutting off your water main if you suspect your pipes have frozen.
- In a newer home or one that may have been updated you may also have a valve box next to your home where your water can be turned off and a valve opened to drain water from your home. This valve box will allow you to not have to turn off the water at the meter.
- Turn on faucets that are frozen and before turning the water main valve back on if it was shut off as a precaution.
- Survey areas for obvious signs of water leaks and be prepared to shut the water off if needed. Keep in mind, leaks that are concealed could take time before a leak is apparent, so be sure to check on a regular basis.
- Try to avoid extended periods where your property is unoccupied for several days to avoid delays identifying and responding to leaks.
- Take additional steps to mitigate the loss by starting water damage cleanup immediately, relocating property and equipment, and enlisting a professional restoration service provider when directed by your insurance carrier.
- Take photos of damages, document expenses and report the loss to your insurance company as soon as possible.
Sincerely,
P.S. City of Dallas is saying they are overwhelmed with requests and not to call 911 but call 311 for water shutoff assistance.