01/22/2026
Public Information 1/22/26
The City of Franklin’s Water Department is issuing a warning regarding the possibility of sub-freezing and freezing temperatures beginning late Saturday night continuing through next week. It would be prudent for home and property owners to winterize homes/business and wrap any pipes exposed to the elements prior to extremely cold temps enveloping our area. Use foam or wrap insulation (available from plumbing supply and home improvement stores) to protect outside faucets and pipes from freezing. Inspect your existing insulation, especially in areas that are exposed to the elements. Temporary insulation (towels, blankets, newspaper, etc.) is better than nothing. We DO NOT recommend that customers allow faucets to drip during the freezing temperatures; however, we DO recommend turning off your water supply and draining pipes to prevent them from rupturing. Should your pipes freeze, please allow them ample time to defrost before opening your faucet. DO NOT use an open flame or pour hot water to thaw frozen pipes. This will likely cause a rapid increase in temperature and could cause more damage to pipes. Be patient as warming temperatures will help naturally defrost pipes. We ask that you conserve water during this time frame. However inconvenient we can be thankful we don’t often freeze this far South.
We would also recommend protecting plants and pets as well as checking on your fellow neighbor especially any Seniors that may need a hand. Make sure they have heat, blankets, and the necessities to stay safe through the night.
Use space heaters safely. Keep them away from curtains, bedding, and anything flammable.
Never use ovens, stoves, or grills for heating.
If traveling, be mindful of possible ice on bridges and overpasses early Monday morning.
We appreciate everyone doing their part to stay safe and to look out for one another. Should you have an emergency during this time and need to reach the Franklin Water Department after hours or during a holiday, please contact the Franklin Police Department's non-emergency line at (337) 828-1716 so an on-call technician may be alerted.
