Winter home safety tip: Don't let pipes freeze!

A frozen water pipe might not be critically damaging by itself, but the leakage which can result can prove devastating. However, a report from website DIYLife.com offers helpful tips on avoiding this winter home safety hazard.

Jack McGraw, a home inspector and board member of the American Society of Home Inspectors, told DIYLife.com "pipes in attics, crawl spaces and outside walls are all vulnerable to freezing, especially if there are cracks or openings that allow cold, outside air to flow across the pipes." Sealing up any such cracks or openings with caulk could help homeowners avoid a cracked pipe.

Although vacationing families might be tempted to save money on heating bills while they are away, a broken pipe could wipe those savings out and then some, according to DIYLife.com. McGraw also told the website homeowners should never try to use an open flame to thaw frozen pipes, since this can result in even more severe damage to a home.