Bedford Firefighters Respond to Several Frozen Pipe Bursts

The Bedford Fire Department has responded to several recent incidents for frozen pipes bursting and causing extensive water damage. With more cold weather in the forecast, Bedford Fire Department urges you to take the following precautions.

 To minimize the risk please consider the following at your home or business:

 • Keep building temperatures as consistent as possible, never less than 55 degrees Fahrenheit. 

• Insulate areas where water supply lines are located and eliminate drafts. 

• If you have water pipes in basements, crawl spaces, or outside walls, insulate the pipes, using pipe-sleeves or other insulating material. 

• Allow warm air to circulate by opening up doors to closets and cabinets where pipe chases are located. 

• On at least a daily basis, all areas of the building should be monitored for open windows, heating failures and water leaks. This especially includes nights, weekends, and school breaks. 

• Provide training in emergency response, i.e. shutting off the water supply. 

If you suspect that a pipe is particularly susceptible to freezing, as an emergency measure, leave water running at a trickle to prevent freezing. This is never recommended as a permanent measure and should be monitored frequently. 

Dry sprinkler systems are still susceptible to freezing, as water can accumulate in low spots and through condensation. All sprinkler systems should be regularly maintained. Contact your sprinkler maintenance company for recommendations. 

Have a plan in place for responding to water leaks and heating failures. Your facility maintenance department should have a plan for safely thawing any pipe you believe to be frozen; however, if you are unsure, call a professional. Never use torches or devices with open flames to thaw frozen pipes.