❄️ City of Abbeville Notice: Prepare for the Upcoming Hard Freeze ❄️

Attention Abbeville Residents,

With temperatures expected to drop below freezing on Sunday night and remain there through Wednesday night, the City of Abbeville urges all residents to take the necessary precautions to protect your home and water pipes.

Please note that City offices will be closed on Monday for Martin Luther King Day. For emergencies after hours or on the holiday, call 337-893-8550.

Important Reminders:

✔️ Ensure all water pipes are properly covered and wrapped, especially those in exposed or uninsulated areas.

✔️ Winterize your home by sealing gaps and drafts to retain heat.

✔️ Maintain a safe and consistent temperature indoors by keeping your thermostat set to no lower than 55°F, even if you’re away.

✔️ Open kitchen and bathroom cabinet doors under sinks, especially those along outside walls, to allow warm air to circulate around pipes.

✔️ Now is the time to locate, uncover, and expose your personal water valve. This is typically located a foot or so away from the water meter, going toward your house or business.

We DO NOT RECOMMEND running your faucets, as this can significantly impact the city’s water pressure system-wide.

Additional Recommendations:

• Consider turning your water completely off during the hardest freezes and draining all faucets of water to prevent bursting pipes.
• Monitor pipes for signs of freezing, such as frost buildup or reduced water flow.

After the Freeze:

• If pipes are frozen, avoid using a torch or open flame to thaw them. Instead, use a hair dryer, warm towels, or warm water.
• Inspect pipes for leaks once thawed. Look for water in unexpected areas, which may indicate a burst pipe or hidden damage.
• Monitor your water usage for the next five days. A sudden spike could signal a hidden leak requiring immediate attention.

Taking these steps now can help prevent costly damage to your home and waterlines during the freeze. Stay safe and prepared!

Thank you for your cooperation,
City of Abbeville