How do I prevent frozen pipes, and what should I do if one freezes in Oklahoma?

Prepare the vulnerable pipes before the freeze

1. Find the private main shutoff, make sure the approach is clear, and record its location for the household. FEMA recommends locating and maintaining whole-home and fixture shutoffs before an emergency. ^[2]
2. Disconnect outdoor hoses and turn off water to sprinklers where the system is designed for seasonal shutoff. National Weather Service preparedness guidance includes both steps. ^[4]
3. Inspect accessible piping in crawlspaces, attics, garages, exterior cabinets, and near outside walls. Insulate exposed pipe where possible before freezing weather. ^[4]
4. Maintain normal indoor heat and allow room air to reach vulnerable cabinet piping when appropriate. The National Weather Service recommends opening sink cabinets to expose piping to heated air. ^[4] Do not use a portable electrical heating device while standing in water. ^[1]
5. Review current National Weather Service information and prepare for power loss or an extended event, because exposure time and building conditions matter as much as a single forecast low. ^[4]

If a faucet stops flowing during a freeze

1. Check whether the problem is local

   Compare another hot and cold fixture. One affected branch suggests a local freeze; multiple fixtures may indicate a broader service or utility problem.

2. Inspect only accessible piping

   Look for frost, bulging, splits, or dampness from a stable, dry position. Limit this check to piping visible from normal occupied areas or an existing safe access point.

3. Open the affected faucet

   The National Weather Service says to turn on the faucet before warming a frozen pipe. ^[5]

4. Use gentle heat without a flame

   For an accessible pipe in a dry area, the National Weather Service lists an electric heating pad, electric hair dryer, or towels soaked in hot water and says never to use an open flame. Keep electrical equipment away from standing water and follow its instructions. ^{[5] [1]}

5. Watch for leakage

   The National Weather Service notes that freezing water can burst pipes. Stay near the accessible area and the main shutoff while flow returns. ^[5]

Check for a split after flow returns

• Inspect the accessible route, joints, cabinets, ceilings below, and exterior penetrations for moisture while the branch is under pressure.
• Listen for running water and observe the meter during a verified no-use period. A hidden split may release water without appearing at the frozen spot.
• Dry minor, safely accessible moisture promptly and document affected finishes. If water is in or near electrical equipment, keep away and follow CDC homeowner electrical-hazard guidance. ^[1]
• Repair the source of cold-air exposure or missing insulation before the next event. National Weather Service preparation guidance recommends insulating exposed pipe where possible and opening sink cabinets so heated air can reach vulnerable piping. ^[4]
• If the same branch freezes repeatedly, review its route, insulation, air sealing, and whether rerouting would provide better long-term protection.

What not to do, and why