The Flagstaff Fire Department officials are reminding Northern Arizonans to heat homes and buildings to prevent water line and sprinkler system breaks. These breaks can result in substantial water damage to businesses, homes, and other buildings.
Flagstaff Fire Marshall Kristin Smith tells Flagstaff Business News that the department gets many calls for system breaks after temperatures begin warming up and the pipes begin to thaw. “Keeping buildings heated to a minimum of 40 degrees will protect sprinkler systems and prevent water damage,” said Smith. Doors and cabinets also can be left open to keep warmer air flowing through a building, she added.
Real estate agents can prevent damage of vacant homes on the market by making sure the homes are heated to a certain level, said Smith, who remembers responding to vacant homes with serious water damage following a cold snap two years ago.
The National Weather Service is predicting overnight low temperatures dipping below zero in some areas of Northern Arizona through the weekend.