Wilsonville Spokesman Online

Pipes frozen? Learn to shut off your water

TVFR offers winter tips after responding to hundreds of frozen pipes call

• Published: 12/15/2009 12:19:55 PM
• Last Updated: 12/15/2009 12:24:26 PM

Below-freezing temperatures may be temporarily gone, but Tualatin Valley Fire and Rescue is taking the respite from the cold as an opportunity to educate the community about how to prepare for and deal with frozen pipes, power outages and more.
 
Over the last week, TVFR firefighters responded to 130 calls related to water problems (usually broken water pipes) at homes and businesses throughout the district. Of the calls for service, 73 were in Beaverton, 11  in Sherwood, 35 in the Tigard/Tualatin area and nine in West Linn – Wilsonville had a near-low for the district with a mere two calls.
 
At one point, after responding to several calls from the same area, TVFR utilized reverse 911 technology through the Washington County Consolidated Communications Agency to advise residents in an Aloha subdivision to check their pipes .
 
"Now that the temperatures are back above freezing, this is a great time to educate yourself about how to shut off the water in your home," TVFR communications officer Brian Barker said. "This can happen to anyone, and many homeowners suffer thousands of dollars in damage because they don't know how to stop the water from flowing."
 
The Tualatin Valley Water District has step-by-step instructions for shutting off water to a building (see the Related Link at the top right of the story).
 
"In the case of a broken pipe, shut off the water valve and contact a plumber or water restoration company," Barker said. "During region-wide weather events, fire departments must prioritize their response to life safety incidents. Knowing how to immediately shut off your water and calling a professional can prevent significant damage to your home."
 
This is also a good time to prepare for power outages and other problems that happen during the winter.  TVFR advises the following preventative measures:
 
– Gather necessary supplies, including flashlights, extra batteries, water, food, blankets, cell phone (vehicle) charger, manual can opener, battery-operated clock, etc. Stock up on food and water, as well as necessary medications.
 
– Candles are a fire hazard – use only flashlights, battery-operated lanterns, and light sticks as emergency lighting in your home.
 
– Prepare your vehicle. Inspect and change fluids (oil, antifreeze, wiper washer, etc.) and ensure your tire tread and brakes are in good working order. Keep your fuel tank at least half-filled and have emergency supplies (flares, blanket, water, cell phone) on hand in case you're stranded. Avoid driving when roads are treacherous.
 
– Never use outdoor equipment, including propane or kerosene heaters or charcoal barbecues, inside a home, due to the risk of carbon monoxide (CO) poisoning. CO is a colorless, odorless and tasteless gas that claims hundreds of lives every year.
 
– Gas-fueled generators must be used outside in a well-ventilated area to avoid carbon monoxide poisoning. Read and follow the manufacturer's instructions carefully before using a generator.

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