Fort Worth residents urged to prepare for subfreezing weather to prevent pipe damage

Fort Worth, Texas – With forecasts predicting more than 60 consecutive hours of subfreezing temperatures in the coming days, the City of Fort Worth is strongly urging residents and business owners to take immediate action to prevent frozen or burst water pipes. Extreme cold weather poses a serious threat to water infrastructure, and preparation now can save time, money, and damage later.

Shut-Off Valve Knowledge is Essential

The first and most crucial step is knowing how to turn off the water supply to your home or business. Locate your private shut-off valve and check that it is working properly. Everyone in the household should know where this valve is located in case of an emergency.

Fort Worth Water realizes that emergencies can’t always wait, and residents are allowed to shut off water at the meter in urgent situations. However, caution is urged when handling the meter lid to avoid damaging the wires connected to the radio transmitter.

Preventative Measures Can Save Thousands

To minimize the risk of frozen pipes, Fort Worth Water has provided several tips for both homeowners and businesses:

• Insulate all exterior pipes, especially those exposed to the elements. Disconnect hoses from outdoor faucets and cover all exposed plumbing.

• Check insulation in unheated areas such as attics, crawl spaces, or under cabinets. If possible, open cabinet doors to allow warm air to circulate around indoor pipes. This is not recommended if children or pets might access harmful substances.

• Irrigation systems should be unplugged or turned off during winter months to avoid dangerous ice formation on sidewalks and roads. Drain the system to prevent internal damage.

• For commercial buildings, especially those with fire sprinkler systems, it’s important to keep heating systems on overnight and through weekends when freezing conditions are expected.

• Consider storing extra water ahead of time in case a pipe or main breaks during the cold snap and water service is temporarily disrupted.

Handling Pipe Freezes and Main Breaks

If you experience no water service and suspect a frozen pipe, it’s best to contact a licensed plumber. Attempting to thaw a frozen pipe with electrical appliances is extremely dangerous—it can cause the pipe to burst and may lead to electrocution.

In the event of a water main break, report the issue immediately. Look for signs like running water along streets or buckling pavement. Contact the city at 817-392-4477 or use the MyFW app to notify authorities quickly.

As Fort Worth braces for a prolonged stretch of freezing weather, city officials urge residents to stay alert, follow guidance, and prepare in advance. These steps can help ensure safety, avoid costly repairs, and keep essential services running during this extended freeze.