This year, the cold temperatures seem to be sticking around, and with another cold spell set to kick in this weekend, knowing how to keep yourself and others safe, is crucial.
The Aquarion Water Company is providing tips to customers to avoid damage and inconvenience that could come from a burst water pipe or damaged meter.
Aquarion suggests tips like:
- Keeping all doors and windows tightly closed.
- Insulating or wrapping pipes
- Keep faucets running at a slow trickle.
- Never use a torch or open flame to thaw a pipe.
- If your water meter is located in an outdoor pit, keep it accessible in case of an emergency so an Aquarion technician can access it if needed.
During these extreme cold temperatures, the unhoused population can also be a concern.
This week, Gov. Ned Lamont extended the state's Severe Cold Weather Protocol until Tuesday at 12 p.m. Resources like 211, provide extra support to those in need during the Severe Cold Weather Protocol.
"In these extreme weather circumstances, we will put cots anywhere in our building so that we can provide a safe place for people. And so there is no max capacity for our shelter. We really want to be able to provide these lifesaving services," said Michele Conderino, CEO of Open Doors.
Open Doors is operating as a 24/7 warming center and shelter.
"We're seeing increases year after year, and when the weather gets like this, that increase means an increase in potential fatalities for the people experiencing homelessness," said JP Rossi, outreach and social program manager at Open Doors.
If you or someone you know is in need of immediate shelter or cold weather resources, call 211 or head to 211.org.