When an indoor pipe freezes, it can burst and create a flood

inside the home. A one-eighth-inch (3-millimeter) crack in a pipe

can spew more than 250 gallons of water a day. That can ruin

carpets, floors, furniture, appliances and many other personal items.

State Farm Fire and Casualty Company, the nation's largest

insurer of homes, has some suggestions on how to avoid becoming

a victim of this preventable disaster.

· Insulate pipes in your home's crawl space and attic. The

more insulation you use, the better protected your pipes will be. An

insulating pipe sleeve, heat tape or a thermostatically controlled

heat cable are probably your best bet. Be sure to use products

approved by an independent testing organization, such as

Underwriters Laboratories Inc., and only for the use intended.

Seal leaks that allow cold air inside. Look for air leaks

around electrical wiring, dryer vents and pipes. Use caulk or insulation

to keep the cold out and the heat in. With severe windchill, a tiny

opening can let in enough cold air to cause a pipe to freeze.

· Disconnect garden hoses and, if practical, use an indoor valve

to shut off and drain water from pipes leading to outside faucets.

This reduces the chances of freezing in the short span of pipe just

outside the house.

· If you're going to be away for an extended period of time,

it might make sense to shut off and drain the water system. You

must be aware, however, that if you have a fire protection

sprinkler system in your house, it will be deactivated when you shut off

the water.

· When severe cold is forecast, let the hot and cold faucets

trickle overnight. Open cabinet doors to allow heat to get to

uninsulated pipes under sinks on exterior walls.

· If you're planning to be away from home for a few days

this winter, set the thermostat no lower than 55 degrees Fahrenheit

(12 degrees Celsius) and ask a friend or neigh-bor to check your

house daily to ensure that it's warm enough to prevent freezing.

Free Brochure

For a free brochure that includes additional tips for

preventing frozen pipes, see a State Farm agent or write No Frozen

Pipes, Public Affairs Department (FP), State Farm Insurance, One

State Farm Plaza, Bloomington, IL 61710.

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