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Agencies Offer Cold-Weather Safety Tips

By Submitted Report
The Tube City Almanac
January 22, 2025
Posted in: Announcements

With Wednesday’s temperatures expected to remain near or below zero for most of the morning, Allegheny County Emergency Services is cautioning residents to take extra care.

A spokesperson said residents should never use a generator, grill, camp stove, or other gasoline, propane, natural gas or charcoal-burning device to generate heat inside their home. Kitchen stoves also should not be used for heat, the spokesperson said.

In addition, at least three feet of space should be kept on all sides of space heaters to prevent clothing, furniture, books, drapes and other items from accidentally catching fire.

Municipal Authority of Westmoreland County urged residents to take proper precautions for water pipes. Water expands as it freezes, putting pressure on the pipes, which can cause pipes to break. A spokesperson said:

• Drip cold water in the faucet furthest from your main valve; moving water keeps pipes from freezing
• Locate your shut-off valves in case of an emergency
• Insulate pipes in unheated areas
• Open cupboards and vanities to warm pipes
• Open outside spigots to allow water to drain

In the event your home’s pipes do freeze, the authority recommends:

• Turn off the water at the main shut-off valve
• Open a faucet near the frozen pipe so that water will flow once the area is melted; this will help melt more ice
• Apply heat to or around the pipe using a hair dryer
• Do not use any open flame devices, such as a propane torch, to heat frozen pipes
• Check all pipes and joints for leaks or cracks
• Call a licensed plumber if you cannot locate the frozen section, if you are unable to reach it, or you are unable to thaw it

Allegheny County public safety officials are encouraging residents to stay inside as much as possible and avoid prolonged periods of being outside and exposed to the elements. Frostbite can occur within 30 minutes at a wind chill temperature of -19 degrees, 10 minutes at -33 degrees, and five minutes at -48 degrees.

Originally published January 22, 2025.

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