Don't lag behind in freezing February, households are advised

Date published: 05 February 2012

North West households are being reminded to keep their pipes snug and warm this month, as February brings a wave of biting sub-zero temperatures.

The region's water company, United Utilities, is advising customers not to get caught out by the cold snap, by ensuring water and heating pipes are adequately lagged.

When temperatures hit zero, internal pipes can freeze, cutting off water supplies and central heating, and landing households with expensive plumbing bills.

Last winter, thousands of families across the region were caught out by a sustained spell of sub-zero temperatures, which caused household pipes to freeze and blood pressure to rise.

Rachel Roberts of United Utilities said: "February is traditionally the UK's coldest month, and sure enough, temperatures have already plummeted below zero in many areas.

"By keeping your pipes and your family well wrapped up, you can avoid a bleak midwinter. Spending a few pounds on lagging from your local DIY store is far preferable to a big plumbing bill, not to mention all the drama and inconvenience that comes with a frozen or burst pipe."

The company's 'Get Winterwise' campaign has seen United Utilities employees hand out thousands of advice packs to customers at supermarkets across the region. Adverts on local buses have also appeared to remind customers to take preventative action around the home.

United Utilities engineers have also taken extra precautions to ensure they can keep the public water mains flowing smoothly, even as the icy conditions set in. These include the purchase of a £40,000 all-terrain snow plough and new 4x4 vehicles, to access remote or snow-bound areas, and a trial of new insulation and heating systems for emergency water tankers.

Top household tips at www.unitedutilities.com/getwinterwise include:

- Find and label your stop tap so you know where to turn the water off if you get a burst

- Lag your pipes, especially those in cold and exposed parts of your home, so they are much less likely to freeze

- Have a plan - make sure you know the number of a good plumber.