People are being encouraged to check their water pipes so they don't freeze in the cold snap and to protect them by wrapping and insulating against the cold.

Any homes and businesses left empty for more than a day or two are particularly at risk and should be protected against possible freezing and bursts.

To help customers cope with the Veolia Water has made a short film: 'How to deal with frozen pipes', starring Customer Service Technician Rob King which can be viewed at www.veoliawater.co.uk/howtoguides or on YouTube at www.youtube.com/veoliawateruk

To prevent burst pipes:

• Check where your stop taps are to isolate your water supply and that they work;
• Insulate exposed water pipes with felt, pipe wrap or other suitable insulating material and cover any outside pipe or fitting with a waterproof material;
• Make sure your cold water tank is insulated;
• Leave central heating on a frost-protect setting overnight;
• If you are planning on leaving your home or office unattended for long periods, turn off the water supply, outside taps and exposed pipes.

Dealing with frozen pipes

If pipes do freeze, turn off the stopcock to cut the water supply and use a gentle heat source to defrost pipes. Start thawing the pipe near where it enters the house.

Dealing with burst pipes

If a pipe bursts, turn off the stopcock, leave a tap on to allow the thawed water to escape and contact a qualified plumber. For a list of local qualified plumbers please visit Veolia Water East - https://east.veoliawater.co.uk/approved-plumbers.aspx.

Veolia Water has advice on its website about coping with the cold weather and protecting pipes from freezing. Visit www.veoliawater.co.uk/coldweather for more information.