How to protect your pipes ahead of a cold snap

FAYETTEVILLE, N.C. (WTVD) -- As the threat of a winter storm looms this weekend, local plumbers and emergency officials are urging residents to take steps now to protect their homes and prepare for freezing temperatures.

Local plumbing experts say one of the simplest ways to prevent frozen pipes is to leave faucets running during periods of extreme cold. Rather than a slow drip, plumbers recommend allowing a steady stream of water to flow, particularly from faucets located along exterior walls.

Mike Brooks, owner of Mike's Plumbing, said frozen pipes can quickly turn into costly repairs if they burst.

"Absolutely. Run the faucets as a steady stream, not a drip," Brooks said. "I suggest on the outside faucets more than the inside faucets. So if you have a kitchen sink on the outside wall or a tub on the outside wall, definitely run those faucets."

According to Brooks, repairing damage from a burst pipe can cost homeowners between $300 and $600.

Brooks said once pipes freeze, options become limited. "When the pipes are frozen, there's really nothing we can do," he said. "We get calls from people saying they have no water because their pipes are frozen, and there's really nothing we can do until they thaw.

With more than 16 years of experience, Brooks also recommends turning on both the hot and cold sides of a faucet. He said the hot water line can freeze faster due to mineral buildup, making it important to keep both lines flowing.

Emergency officials are also encouraging residents to prepare beyond their plumbing.

Cumberland County Emergency Management officials are urging families to review their emergency plans and ensure they have supplies on hand in case of power outages or hazardous travel conditions.

"We always encourage our residents to make sure they have their 72-hour emergency kit prepared for both their home and in their vehicle," said Laura Smith, Fayetteville's emergency management coordinator. "Make sure that you have extra clothing, extra medication and games for your kids to play, and cash in case the power goes out."

Smith advised residents not to panic-buy, but to ensure essentials are available, including water. "A good rule of thumb for keeping water on hand is one gallon of water per person per day," Smith said.

Officials also warned residents to use caution when heating their homes during power outages. Generators should never be used indoors because they emit carbon monoxide, a deadly gas. "Make sure you have a working carbon monoxide detector and a smoke alarm," Smith said. "Do not use generators inside of your home or use your stove to heat your home."

County officials are encouraging residents to sign up for the county's emergency alert system to receive real-time weather updates as the storm approaches.