SOUTH LAKE TAHOE, Calif. – With winter approaching, it’s important to prepare your home for freezing temperatures. South Tahoe Public Utility District reminds homeowners to take precautions with your home plumbing to avoid the damage and expense of frozen pipes.

 “Fall is a great time of year to locate and test your home shut-off valve,” says Lauren Benefield, Water Conservation Specialist. “If you don’t have a home shut-off valve, consider installing one.”

How to prepare your home for freezing temperatures:

• Turn off and drain irrigation system
• Disconnect and drain outdoor hoses
• Check for outdoor valve leaks
• Find and test your home shut-off valve
• Insulate exposed pipes or faucets
• Seal holes and cracks in exterior walls, foundation, and around pipes

Make sure STPUD has your current phone number in case of an emergency. To update your contact information, call 530-544-6474 or visit stpud.watersmart.com.

Once the snow begins to fall, shovel your home shut-off valve regularly to make sure you can access it during an emergency.

If you are away from your home during the winter months:

• Turn off your home shut-off valve.
• Open indoor and outdoor faucets to drain pipes. Remember to close faucets once drained.
• Open all bedroom, bathroom, and cabinet doors under kitchen and bathroom faucets.
• Keep the thermostat at 65 degrees (as recommended by the Insurance Information Institute).

Shelly Thomsen, Director of Public and Legislative Affairs says, “Following these simple steps can help protect your home against water damage and costly repairs this winter.”

To learn more about winterizing your home, visit http://www.stpud.us/winterizing-tips.