Missouri American Water Urges Customers to Prepare for Cold Weather

Core Insights - Missouri American Water emphasizes the importance of preparing homes and businesses for winter to prevent frozen pipes and costly repairs [1][2] Preparation Tips - Customers are advised to locate their main shut-off valve, insulate exposed pipes, and monitor for potential freezing to ensure reliable water service throughout winter [2][3] - It is recommended to eliminate sources of cold air near water lines by checking for pipes in areas prone to freezing and fixing drafty windows [3][4] Pipe Protection Strategies - Insulating exposed pipes with materials like heat tape or even fabric can help protect them from freezing [3] - Keeping water moving through the pipes by allowing a small trickle can prevent freezing, as the cost of water is typically lower than repair costs [5] Emergency Preparedness - Customers should know how to shut off their main water valve and test its functionality to ensure it works properly in emergencies [4] - A freeze alarm is suggested to alert homeowners if indoor temperatures drop below 45 degrees [5] Company Overview - American Water is the largest regulated water and wastewater utility company in the U.S., serving over 14 million people across 14 states [6] - Missouri American Water, a subsidiary of American Water, is the largest regulated water utility in Missouri, providing services to approximately 1.6 million people [8]