I’ve been hearing a ton of horror stories from my friends about frozen pipes, loss of hot water, ect. Here are some helpful tips for surviving this ridiculous cold-spell from the City of Olympia. “There are a few helpful things you can do around the house to prepare for when temperatures drop near or below freezing. In these weather conditions, Public Works reminds you to plan for the following…”

Frozen Water Pipes
As water expands and freezes, pipes are more susceptible to crack and burst. The best thing you can do to prevent your pipes from freezing is to take protective measures. If you are a City of Olympia Water customer and you suspect that your pipes have frozen, please take the following steps:

1. Call Public Works at 360.753.8333. Let us know you suspect your pipes are frozen because you do not have any water.

Have your water turned off – before it thaws. Do not attempt to turn off your water meter yourself, as you can damage the meter. Be aware that you will be charged the maintenance cost to repair any damage you cause.

Find the leak and thaw your pipes. After your water is turned off, open cabinets under the sink to allow the heat of the house in. This will help thaw the pipes.

Fix the leak. Check the yellow pages for a licensed plumber.

Call us when your pipes are repaired. We will come back out, free of charge, to turn your water back on. We will also verify that you no longer have a leak. Please give us as much notice as possible so we can accommodate your request.

Organics, Garbage and Recycling Collection
With extended freezing weather and moisture in your carts, materials inside carts can freeze and make it difficult to empty carts fully. Waste ReSources thanks you for your understanding and for having your cart out by 6:00 a.m. Place your cart inside your garage if possible. If your cart is frozen, break up the materials inside your cart.

Icy Roadways
Public Works has updated our Snow and Ice Program to keep streets safe and passable during adverse weather conditions and storm events. Learn more at www.olympiawa.gov/snow. Contact Public Works to report icy conditions on City roads or problem areas.