Avoid burst pipes

Cold weather warning: avoid winter water woes

Water company United Utilities is urging householders to get ready for freezing temperatures this week.

Forecasters predict night-time lows of down to minus three this week, and that could mean bad news for exposed pipes.

Frozen pipes in your home can cut your water supply and cause expensive leaks and bursts, but there are things you can do to prevent it, the company says.

"We take care of the water mains in the street, but pipes under your garden and in your home belong to you, so you need to take care, " said United Utilities campaign manager Rose Francis.

"As with all these things prevention is better than cure. The best thing is to lag pipes, especially in unheated areas like garages or lofts. But just in case the worst happens, make sure you have a plan. Take a few minutes now, before the cold strikes, to find out where your stop tap is and get the name of a good plumber." 

• Local plumbers