Public help to plug leaks as thaw starts

11 January 2010

We are urging the public to report water leaks in Burnley, Preston, Blackburn and along the Fylde Coast.

As a slight thaw comes to some areas of the North West, water engineers are keen to repair leaks as quickly as possible, weather forecasters are still predicting below-freezing temperatures at night would continue until the middle of the week.

We have drafted in dozens of extra leak detection teams to the central Lancashire area, as its call centre managed more than 7200 calls from worried customers reporting frozen pipes - ten times more than on a normal winter day.

Scott Beard, Regional Water Network Manager for UU said: "As the thaw starts we would appeal to the general public to call us on 0800 33 00 33 or report a leak online and report any water leaks in the street or if they are experiencing low water pressure at home.

"Often low water pressure at home, especially if your neighbors are experiencing similar problems might point to a local water main leaking."

"Icy roads and snow showers continue to hamper our engineers attending parts of the North West, said Mr Beard, but all reports of leaks will be responded to within 24-hours."

Thawing your pipes can take some time but it is possible to help yourself. Here's how:

• First, locate your main stop tap. It is usually under the kitchen sink or in a utility room closest to where the water supply enters your property.
• Apply a hot water bottle to the pipe or use a hairdryer in short bursts.
• Please note you should never use a naked flame near the pipes.
• Please avoid using heat on or near your water meter.