NI Water is urging property owners to know the location of their stop valve and how to turn it off quickly to help safeguard homes and businesses against burst pipes during the winter weather season.

With temperatures expected to drop below zero in the coming days, NI Water says it’s vitally important to know the exaction location of your stop valve and how to turn it off quickly to prevent significant water damage and costly repairs.

NI Water Education Officer Anna Killen said: “When water freezes inside pipes, it expands and can cause the pipe to burst. This not only wastes water but can lead to flooding and damage within your home or business.

"Prevention is always better than cure; taking a few simple steps to prepare now will give you peace of mind as the cold weather sets in and make all the difference in avoiding disruption to your water supply and unnecessary expense.”

Visit www.niwater.com