Friendswood Public Works tells homeowners how to find master water shutoff to prevent frozen-pipe damage

Russell Kidd, crew leader with the City of Friendswood Public Works Department, urged homeowners to locate their master water shutoff valve before freezing temperatures arrive, saying "with winter officially upon us, we wanna help you prepare for the hazards of winter weather and show you how to shut off your water."

Kidd said frozen water in pipes can crack or split plumbing; once thawed, those breaks can cause water damage inside the home. He described a step-by-step method for finding the master shutoff: locate the black water meter box in the front yard, remove the lid, identify the meter closest to the house (the other often serves a neighbor), then follow a straight line from that meter toward the house to find the valve.

"Often, you'll find the valve located outside of the home, usually below your spigot or inside an interior wall of a closet or garage," Kidd said. He added that older homes may have a panel in a bedroom or closet that hides the valve. For handle-style valves, turn the handle so it is perpendicular to the valve line; for knob-style valves, turn clockwise to close.

Kidd warned homeowners not to try to turn the meter itself because doing so can damage the meter. Instead, he said, call Friendswood Public Works at 281-996-3380 and tell staff you cannot locate your shutoff valve or you have a leaking pipe; Public Works can shut water off at the meter. "Public Works employees are available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. Please do not call 911 for water shutoff assistance," he said.

The guidance repeats the basic precautions: find the master shutoff before an emergency, use the correct turning direction for valve types, and contact Public Works for help rather than attempting to operate the meter.