It's the one-year anniversary of the "great freeze of 2011" (February 3 and 4) and Tucson Water still recommends that customers insulate and protect exposed plumbing from cold temperatures which could still occur before this winter is over. See the news links from last February’s arctic air blast to remind yourself what it was like. Read the Arizona Daily Star article "Lessons Learned from the Big Freeze of '11."

• Wrap exposed pipes and plumbing with proper insulation, available at plumbing supply and home improvement stores.
• Use temporary insulation, such as towels or blankets, until a better option is available.
• Don't forget about your evaporative cooler, irrigation system, and backflow prevention assemblies.

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If you have to turn off the water to your home or business, do so at the shut-off valve, NOT at the water meter. 

If you need the water meter valve turned off, call Tucson Water at our emergency number at (520) 791-4133 or Customer Service at (520) 791-3242 (after 6 a.m.). However, it is important to know where this valve is located in case you need to quickly turn off the water, if your emergency situation dictates immediate action:

1. Locate your water meter. Most are located at the front of the home or business near the sidewalk or at the rear (alley).
2. Remove the lid. Behind the meter, on the side closest to your home or business, you should find either a gate valve (looks like a wheel) or a ball valve (has a handle). To close a gate valve, turn to the right; to close a ball valve, turn ¼ of the way to the right.
3. If you cannot see or turn the valve, call Tucson Water. We will respond as soon as staff are available. Call our emergency number at (520) 791-4133 or Customer Service at (520) 791-3242 (after 6 a.m.).
4. Call a plumber for assistance if the break is on your property (between the meter and your home or business or inside your home or business).

To report running water or leaks, water problems where the main water valve needs to be turned off, or a pressure decrease, click here to send an e-mail.

Additional resources:

Tucson Water's Winterizing Tips
Current Weather Conditions for Tucson (Tucson International Airport)
Tucson Botanical Gardens' "Southwest Planting Tips by Month"
Recent local news coverage:
"Older saguaros are still paying a price after great freeze of 2011" (Arizona Daily Star)
"Cold weather can mean broken pipes, plumbing headaches" (KOLD 13)
"Winter weather precautions necessary in Tucson" (Fox 11)