The City of San Marcos Public Services Department encourages residents to prevent broken water pipes by acting before the cold weather arrives.
Protect outside pipes from freezing:
- Caulk around pipes where they enter the house, close foundation vents and use wood or foam blocks to fit vent openings around pipes
- Wrap outside faucets or hose bibs in molded foam insulation or layers of old newspapers and cover with plastic to keep out moisture
- If you have a separate shut-off valve for outside faucets, turn it off
- Drain in-ground sprinkler systems
Protect pipes inside the house
- Insulate pipes in unheated areas (crawl space, attic, garage or basement)
- Open cupboard doors in kitchen and bathrooms
- Let faucets drip a little if the temperature dips below freezing
- Know how to shut off water valves.
Protecting pets:
- Keep pets inside out of severe cold
- If pets are outside, provide a doghouse with door away from the wind
- Line doghouse with straw or cedar shavings
- Make sure they have access to fresh water and food
- Do not leave antifreeze, coolant or windshield wiper fluid within reach
- Make sure your cat hasn’t crawled under the car hood for warmth
Protect plants:
- Bring sensitive plants inside
- Protect roots and foliage of plants with mulch, straw, bubble plastic or cloth
- Move potted plants out of the wind
The latest weather updates can be found online at the National Weather Service at www.weather.gov.