The first frost warnings of the year means winter is around the corner.

Frozen pipes can cause hundreds of dollars of damage in a short period of time.

Recommendations include:

• Insulate pipes in the attic and crawl spaces.
• In freezing weather allow a slow drip from faucets. This will relieve pressure on the system and allow water to circulate.
• Open cabinet doors to allow heat to get to pipes.
• Set your thermostat no lower than 55 degrees.
• Consider a leak alarm or automatic water shutoff system.

If a pipe does freeze and burst, be sure that everyone in your home knows where the main water shutoff valve is located.