Current Risk Alert

January 19, 2025

EXTREME COLD, FROZEN PIPE ALERT

Starting Friday night, January 19, temperatures will fall into the upper single digits across the far interior of Massachusetts and mid 10s along the coastal plain. Wind chill values Friday night and Saturday night will drop to below zero degrees.

Before the low temperatures set in, snow is expected across the region on Friday. The snow forecast for the Boston-area is 1 to 3 inches, while southeastern Massachusetts and the South Shore could see 2 to 4 inches, and Cape Cod may get 3 to 5 inches.

The cold snap increases the risk for losses from frozen pipe damage, a leading cause of loss and expense for us. Last year, frozen pipes caused over $500,000 in damages.

We urge you to take immediate precautions to protect your property from potentially costly damage

PRECAUTIONARY/PREPAREDNESS ACTIONS

Considering the severity of this cold, keep thermostats set at 70°–72° F for the duration of this cold spell, even in unoccupied buildings. This may temporarily increase your heating costs, but it’s a small price to pay to avoid more costly damage and inconvenience caused by frozen pipes.
Maintenance personnel should check facilities, ESPECIALLY UNOCCUPIED BUILDINGS, in the morning and evening each day throughout the weekend. Check for frozen lines by making sure water is flowing in the faucets and toilets. If you believe a line is frozen, shut off the water supply until a plumber arrives.
If you lose heat and are unable to restore heat, shut off the water supply and drain the pipes. This will prevent water from freezing and bursting the pipes. If you are unable to drain the pipes, open the taps a little to allow water to trickle out. If you choose this option, please monitor the taps on a regular basis.
The plumbing and heating contractors’ contact information should be shared with the facilities staff and immediately available. For full a list of service vendors, go to: VENDORS

Losses will increase insurance premiums for all locations. Please take action – frozen pipes can be prevented!

SPACE HEATER SAFETY

During cold periods, it is tempting to use portable space heaters for extra warmth. PLEASE USE CAUTION. If using a space heater, inspect it for safety – make sure it is functioning properly and that the cords are not frayed. Only use a space heater that automatically shuts off if it tips over. DO NOT USE EXTENSION CORDS WITH PORTABLE HEATERS – PLUG THEM DIRECTLY INTO THE WALL OUTLET. Keep the heater at least three feet away from anything that can burn, such as paper, clothing, or furniture.

Reporting a Claim
If you experience property damage or injury as a result of the cold, report the claim immediately to PMA at 888-476-2669.