• Know where your stopcock is and make sure you can turn it off and on
• If possible, keep the heating on at a minimum temperature of 13°C as this will prevent temperatures dropping below freezing where water pipes are located
• Leave cupboard doors under the kitchen sink and bathroom cabinets open to allow warm air to circulate
• If your pipes do freeze, thaw them out slowly using a hot water bottle. You should never use a blow lamp

Last year, due to the severe cold weather conditions experienced in South Lanarkshire, hundreds of households experienced frozen or burst pipes. In some instances, the damage to the fabric of the building was severe, with many tenants and residents losing personal possessions and some having to vacate their homes and reside in alternative accommodation.

Use our advice to help reduce the risks of your property being adversely affected by this week’s sub-zero conditions.

Council tenants should contact the council immediately on 0303 123 1010 or out of hours 0800 242024, if they spot any issues such as a leak or a blocked toilet. Please refer to the council’s website for further advice and guidance www.southlanarkshire.gov.uk

The council also operates a tenant’s home contents insurance scheme with Aviva Insurance. You can secure cover from as little as £13 per year* with the ease of paying premiums along with your rent. You can either apply online or phone 0303 123 1024.

*Price includes Insurance Premium Tax (IPT) charged at the appropriate rate. Terms and conditions apply, contact above.

The policy is underwritten by Aviva Insurance Limited. Aviva Insurance Limited, Registered in Scotland Number 2116. Registered Office: Pitheavlis, Perth PH2 0NH. Authorised by the Prudential Regulation Authority and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority and the Prudential Regulation Authority. FP.ENT. 540RR

Council Insurance Information