“10 ways to prevent frozen pipes and thaw them safely”

Key points

• Frozen pipes often burst due to pressure buildup, not water expansion as ice.
• Key risk areas include attics, crawl spaces, garages, exterior walls, and outdoor lines.
• Prevention focuses on keeping water moving, reducing cold exposure, and avoiding pressure buildup.
• Drips at vulnerable fixtures help prevent freezing and signal developing ice.
• Insulation with foam sleeves or fiberglass wrap protects exposed pipes in risky spaces.