Although holiday spirit will be running high in the coming days, the forecasted temperatures are expected to plummet, and the City of Wheeling is offering a reminder on how to avoid waterline freeze up that would most certainly put a damper on festive celebrations.

Water Superintendent Lori Siburt said when temperatures drop, the risk of the pipes freezing increases.

“Although the pipes at most risk are those in unheated interior spaces such as basements and garages, even pipes running through cabinets and exterior walls can freeze. However, something as simple as keeping a trickle of water running though the pipes can help to prevent freezing,” she said.

Siburt said residents, especially those who have been susceptible to frozen pipes in the past, should run a fixture with a flow approximately the thickness of a number two pencil.

 “This would greatly help to prevent a meter and service line from freezing up and help avert any freezing on the property as well,” she said. “Frozen pipes are the last thing a homeowner wants to deal with let alone in the middle of the holidays. An ounce of prevention can go a long way.”