WATER and energy company United Utilities today called on homeowners to take preventative action during the winter months to protect water supplies.
The warning comes at the end of one of the driest years on record.
Customers are being advised to lag water pipes in homes and businesses as a precaution against the icy period, so if pipes burst it will save water and damage to properties.
People are also being encouraged to leave the central heating on 'low' if they go away as this will reduce the risk of burst pipes.
Jamie Miller of United Utilities, said: "Sudden wintry snaps can take us all by surprise. The important thing is to act now to avoid the risk of burst pipes flooding homes or businesses."
Reservoirs in the North West which should be about 90 per cent full at this time of year are only 65 per cent full.
United Utilities has applied for permission to supplement reservoir levels through the winter by pumping extra water from Windermere and Ullswater in the Lake District.
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