DPW reminds citizens to clear snow from fire hydrants and storm drains in your neighborhood (melting snow and thawing ice need clear channels to storm drains). Keeping storm drains clear prevents flooding of intersections and basements and lets water flow freely away. As well as:
Let a thin stream of cold water run from a basement faucet. The stream should be a continuous flow, about the thickness of a pencil. This water can be caught in a bucket or pail to be recycled later as laundry or dish water.
If your pipe is frozen, gently warm it with hot air from a blow dryer at the point where it enters your house.
Be sure you know the location of the water shutoff valve in your home. Check it periodically to ensure it works properly.
Periodically monitor your sump pump. A frozen drain pipe could result in a flooded basement. Insulate pipes in unheated parts of your house. Be especially alert if you have had frozen pipes in the past. Keep bottled water on hand.
ADDITIONAL COLD WEATHER TIPS CAN BE FOUND ON THE DPW WEBSITE.
The Department of Public Works maintains outdoor water lines up to and including the meter. Water lines running from the meter to the house, as well as internal plumbing, are the responsibility of the property owner.
For water emergencies in Baltimore City, please call 311. If you are outside the City, but in our service area, please call 410-396-5352.
