Polar Vortex hits Chicago area

2/9/2021 (Permalink)

Cold air and water pipes don't mix very well. Take precautions now to prevent bursting pipes.

Generally, when you hear the word "storm", you think of heavy precipitation (rain or snow), and maybe you think of high winds that can accompany the precipitation.  But what about extreme cold?

In February 2021, a large polar vortex descended on the Midwest, dropping temperatures well below zero at night, and daytime highs in the single digits at best.

Now, polar vortices have hit the area before, the last in January 2019.  But this particular storm will last a couple of weeks, with persistent cold and periods of recurring snow.

Some ways to protect yourself and property during this cold wave:

To prevent water pipes from freezing:

• Keep heat elevated enough in rooms where water pipes may be on exterior walls.
• Keep a slight drip or trickle from the faucet.  Moving water cannot freeze.
• Wrap water pipes in insulation.

Some cold weather DON'TS:

• Do not use an oven as a primary heat source.
• Do not use charcoal or gas grills indoors.
• Do not place space heaters within three feet of flammable materials (drapes, bedding, towels, etc)
• Do not leave space heaters unattended.  Turn off when leaving the room.
• Do not let children or pets play around space heaters.
• Do not leave candles unattended.

Some DO'S:

• Check on family or neighbors, especially if they are elderly or homebound.
• Exercise.  Not only will it help take your mind off of being cold, but the body will generate some heat to make you feel warmer.
• Close off unused rooms, unless that room has water pipes within.  Consider placing blankets as a second layer of insulation over drapes or blinds.
• Compile a bag of clothes, medicines, etc, in case the power goes out and you have to leave in a hurry.

SERVPRO Bedford Park/Burbank hopes that everyone stays safe during this cold wave.

If the cold caused your water pipes to leak or burst, call the water experts at SERVPRO Bedford Park/Burbank at 708-430-3600.