DALLAS - s4story -- DALLAS, Texas — As colder weather approaches, homeowners can take practical steps to reduce the risk of frozen pipes and prepare for a water emergency. HearthDry has outlined common trouble spots, cold-weather precautions, and the immediate actions homeowners should take if a frozen pipe bursts.

Pipes located in exterior walls, unheated crawl spaces, attics, and garages can be particularly vulnerable when temperatures fall. Pipes near gaps in insulation or exposed to cold air may freeze before homeowners notice a problem.

Preparing before a cold snap can help reduce the risk. Homeowners should locate the main water shutoff valve and make sure they know how to operate it. During extreme cold, allowing exposed-pipe faucets to drip can help keep water moving. Opening the cabinet doors beneath kitchen and bathroom sinks on exterior walls also allows warmer indoor air to circulate around plumbing.

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If a pipe bursts, the first priority is to stop the water flow. Homeowners should shut off the main water supply immediately rather than spending time searching for the exact location of the break. Once the main supply is off, opening faucets around the house can help drain remaining water from the plumbing and release pressure.

Electrical safety is another immediate concern. If water has reached or is spreading toward affected areas, power to those areas should be shut off. Water and electricity can create a dangerous situation, so homeowners should avoid entering unsafe areas.

Documentation should begin before cleanup whenever it is safe to do so. Photographs and videos of the burst pipe, visible water, damaged flooring, walls, and belongings can help establish a record for an insurance claim. Homeowners should also document the affected areas before moving items or beginning cleanup.

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Water can travel beneath flooring and into walls and insulation beyond the visibly wet area. Professional water extraction and structural drying may therefore be necessary after a burst pipe. Homeowners should also contact their insurance company to discuss the damage and claim process.

HearthDry's guide, Frozen Pipes: Prevention, Warning Signs & Emergency Response (https://hearthdry.com/guides/frozen-pipes-prevention-emergency), provides further information on preventing frozen pipes, recognizing warning signs, and responding when a pipe bursts.

Preparing ahead of winter and knowing where the main shutoff is located can help homeowners respond more quickly when plumbing problems occur.