Northumbrian Water is encouraging its customers to take simple steps to protect their homes from the misery of frozen and burst pipes this winter, as the cold weather begins to set in.
With temperatures dropping, water pipes are at a greater risk of bursting, causing thousands of pounds worth of damage and a whole load of stress and inconvenience.
By taking a few simple precautions now, people can avoid frozen water pipes in their homes in the event of a big freeze.
Jim Howey, Head of Water Networks at Northumbrian Water, said: "We're very excited to see Frozen 2, but if there's one frozen sequel we don't want to see, it would be a repeat of the Beast from the East this winter!
"The cold weather brings problems for pipework and plumbing, and can cause water to freeze inside pipes. When this happens, the frozen water takes up more space inside the pipe than its liquid form, expanding and causing the pipe to split and burst.
"A burst pipe can be catastrophic but it's easy to prevent this from happening by taking action now. Don't head ‘into the unknown' this winter, follow our advice to get your home cold-weather ready and ‘let it flow'!"
Customers can visit Northumbrian Water's website at www.nwl.co.uk for a list of tips on how to avoid frozen pipes at home and what to do if a pipe freezes.
For people looking for a local, approved plumber on hand to help them this winter, they can use the WaterSafe online directory at www.watersafe.org.uk.
Changing temperatures can also lead to an increase in the number of burst pipes and leaks on Northumbrian Water's network, as well as its customers' pipework. Customers can report a leak in the street online at www.nwlcommunityportal.co.uk/leaks or by calling 0800 393 084.