ALERTS

If you haven’t shut off your outside water yet, TODAY is a great day to do it with temperatures still above freezing.

Why the urgency?  A long stretch of extreme cold arrives starting Friday evening, with at least a week — possibly 10 days — of highs mainly in the low 30s and lows in the single digits and teens.  That is a recipe for frozen or burst pipes.

Here's what to do:

* Make sure the lid is on the water meter pit tightly and DO NOT open it.  If the meter freezes, call the office.  Don't try to thaw it out yourself.

* Turn off the outside water valve from inside your home

* Disconnect hoses and store them indoors

* Open outdoor faucets to let any remaining water drain out

* Add insulated faucet covers for extra protection

* Farmers, check your cattle waterer regularly