LAKEPORT, Calif. — As temperatures drop, it's time to think about winterizing your home's plumbing.

Frozen pipes can cause major headaches and expensive damage, but a few simple steps can help you stay ahead of the freeze.

The city of Lakeport offers the following tips on how to prepare your pipes for the chilly months ahead.

Insulate exposed pipes: Wrap pipes in unheated areas, like your garage, attic or crawl spaces, with pipe insulation. Foam sleeves or heat tape work wonders.

Disconnect outdoor hoses: Remove and store garden hoses. Drain outdoor faucets and consider installing faucet covers for extra protection.

Seal drafts: Check around windows, doors, and where pipes enter your home. Seal gaps and cracks to keep cold air out and warm air in.

Let faucets drip: During freezing weather, let a small trickle of water run from faucets connected to exposed pipes. Running water is less likely to freeze!

Keep the heat on: Even if you're away, keep your thermostat set to at least 55°F to prevent freezing inside your home.

Open cabinets: In extreme cold, open cabinet doors under sinks to circulate warm air around pipes.

Know where your main water shut-off valve is: If a pipe bursts, you’ll need to shut off the water quickly. Locate the valve now to save time later.

Preventing frozen pipes not only protects your home but also saves water and money. Don’t let the cold catch you off guard — take action today.