Water departments want you to have a plan to prevent or manage freezing pipes. Illinois American Water spokeswoman Karen Cotton says know where to turn off the water if a pipe freezes. Leave it off until the pipe thaws and then turn it on slowly to inspect for leaks. If you’re lucky, you won’t have to repair anything.
There are a few ways to help prevent the pipe from freezing. Foam insulating sleeves can be put on. Sometimes warm air can be let into a crawlspace or cabinet where the pipes are. And you can let a thin stream of water run when it’s very cold, because moving water won’t freeze.