KANSAS CITY, Mo. — It's time to prepare for the Arctic blast moving into the Kansas City area over the weekend.
Not only do we need to protect ourselves in the dangerously low temperatures and wind chills, but we also need to protect our homes.
Temperatures will plummet beginning Saturday afternoon, and there's a possibility that pipes can burst as the brutal cold sticks around for two weeks.
Remember that water expands as it freezes, causing pipes to rupture. Here are a few things you can do to prevent this from happening:
1. Remove, drain and store outdoor hoses
By disconnecting hoses from the house, you will prevent water from freezing in the hose and rupturing the spigot.
2. Consider insulating exposed pipes
It's important to keep pipes, especially ones on the exterior part of the home, as warm as possible. Insulate exterior faucets with a foam cover if they do not have a cut-off valve.
3. Let cold water drip from the faucet
Running water does not freeze! Any little bit of water movement through the pipes will prevents them from freezing.
4. Open kitchen or bathroom cabinets
This will let warm air flow around the supply lines. Be sure to move any cleaners or other chemicals out of the reach of children.
5. Leave heat no lower than 55°F
It's very important to keep the heat on even if you're leaving town!
Unfortunately, the cold will be with us for a long time. The long-range temperature forecast has Kansas City staying below freezing until Feb. 18-19.
Stay warm, Kansas City, and don't forget to protect yourselves and your home in conditions like these.
