Brunswick County public utilities issues winter PSA on protecting pipes

Chris Geesting, deputy director of water operations for the Brunswick County Public Utilities Department, delivered a short public service announcement urging residents to take steps to protect their plumbing as cold weather approaches. He advised insulating exposed pipes in basements, crawl spaces, garages and along exterior walls and recommended inexpensive foam pipe sleeves as an easy fix. Geesting said homeowners should let faucets drip slightly during extreme cold because moving water is less likely to freeze and should open cabinet doors under sinks to allow warm air to circulate. He advised residents who will be away to set thermostats no lower than 55°F and, if possible, ask someone to check on the house. Geesting also reminded listeners to locate their main water shutoff valve in case a pipe bursts. He said the Public Utilities Department has been preparing infrastructure for the storm and emphasized that "a little preparation now can prevent costly repairs later."