Benton Utilities Water Dept. reminds citizens to protect the water systems in their homes and businesses from freezing. When water freezes, it expands. When water freezes in a pipe and expands enough, the pipe bursts, water escapes and serious damage results. Pipes in attics, crawl spaces and outside walls are all vulnerable to freezing, especially if there are cracks or openings that allow cold outside air to flow across the pipes.

To keep pipes from freezing, wrap hot and cold water pipes in insulation, heat tape or layers of newspaper, covering the newspapers with plastic to keep out moisture. Allow a trickle of water to run from a cold faucet that is farthest from the water meter or one that has frozen in the past. This will keep the water moving so that it cannot freeze and will help relieve pressure should ice form in the pipes. Open kitchen and bathroom cabinet doors to allow warm air to circulate around the pipes.

When an emergency such as a major leak or broken water pipe occurs, the first thing you will need to do is shut the water off. If you act quickly, you may prevent costly water damage to your home and valuables. In the event, you have a water line break, and you can’t get the water shut off, call Benton Utilities Water Dept. at (501)776-5930. We will send someone out to turn it off as soon as possible 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.