Residents are being urged to wrap up their water pipes as well as themselves to avoid against the misery of burst pipes this winter.

Essex & Suffolk Water has issued some advice to prevent against the increased risk of burst pipes.

By taking a few simple precautions now, people can protect their homes and businesses to prevent potential damage, stress and expensive repairs in the event of a big freeze.

To download an information leaflet and to watch a video giving practical advice about protecting your home or business against frozen pipes go to: http://www.eswater.co.uk/your-home/your-services/Beat-the-freeze.aspx

To prevent pipes from freezing:

• Ensure pipes are properly insulated, both inside and out.

• Keep heating turned on, or on a timer for short periods every day, to maintain warmth.

• Check for draughts around windows and doors and insulate if needed, as pipes can freeze if near a draught.

• Make sure pipes and tanks in the loft are lagged.

• Customers should find out where the property’s internal private stop tap is located and check that it works in case of an emergency. If it does not work then you should contact a plumber who will be able to help.

• Turn off valves to outside taps.

• If the property is going to be unoccupied, the water supply should be turned off at the private stop tap and internal water pipes and tanks should be drained.

David Aland, Essex & Suffolk Water’s Essex Operations Manager, based at Hanningfield water treatment works near Chelmsford, says there are many simple tips customers can use to stay safe this winter.

He said: "It’s not just people who need to keep warm and wrap up with extra layers in winter.

"Water pipes and tanks also need protection against the elements.

"By following our simple advice, customers can keep their homes and businesses frost-free and avoid costly plumbing bills and a huge amount of inconvenience during severe weather conditions,” he said.

If pipes do freeze:

• Apply gentle heat to the pipes.

  • Use a hair dryer, heat lamp or fan heater. Do not use a naked flame or blow torch. Start at the tap and work away from it, leaving the tap open to allow thawed water to escape.

• Watch the pipes for any splits which may develop.

• If any bursts are found, turn the water off and call a plumber who will be able to help.

Essex & Suffolk Water is also asking customers to help ensure external leaks on the water supply network are repaired as quickly as possible by reporting them to our dedicated leak-line on 0800 526 337. This is a free phone service and operates 24 hours a day.