For Immediate Release
Date: January 6, 2015

With freezing temperatures expected this week, residents are urged to take precautions.

• Residents should turn off their irrigation systems, as runoff can create icy roadways and sidewalks. City irrigation systems and the fountains of Daffin Park and Ellis Square will be turned off Wednesday, Jan. 7. Other fountains which don’t spray onto walkways will remain on, since they are less likely to suffer damage when left on during freezing temperatures.

• Residents should allow their water to drip from a faucet at night to help prevent pipes from freezing. Homeowners may call 311 on their phone 24 hours a day if water service is not working. City water crews will respond, and will turn off the water at the meter and advise residents. However, if there is pipe damage between a property’s water meter (located near the street or sidewalk) and the home or business, the property owner will be responsible for repairs. If the City experience a heavy volume of calls, response may be delayed; homeowners should not wait to contact a plumber.

If cold water works but hot water faucet is non-responsive, that is a sign that a hot water pipe has frozen or burst. If this happens, homeowners are advised to turn off the hot water heater breaker in the breaker box, as leaving on without water can damage the hot water heater element. Then call a plumber.