Colder weather increases the chance that

 your water pipes might freeze, especially if

 you have the gas service disconnected at a

 vacation home over the winter. Here are

 some tips to help you avoid or deal with the

problem:

 For normal precautions:

 • Insulate exposed pipes with heat tape,

 newspapers or rags.

 • Place a 60-watt light bulb close to the

 water meter to keep it from freezing.

 • If pipes are close to an exposed outside

 wall, open the cabinet door to let room

 heat in.

 • Use a hair dryer or turn up the heat in your

 home to 75 degrees to thaw a pipe; do not

 use a torch.

 • If a pipe bursts, shut off the main valve,

 usually located near the meter.

 • Be aware that leaks sometimes don’t show

 up until a pipe thaws, when they can

 cause extensive damage to plaster walls.

 If you’ll be away for the winter:

 • Drain pipes completely.

 • Pour a cup of antifreeze into the draintraps,

 toilet bowls and tanks.

 • Make sure the main shut-off valve is

 turned off.

 • Open all faucets.

 • Drain the hot water tank.