Palos Park, IL – Residents across Cook County are being urged to take precautions today as extreme cold increases the risk of frozen and burst pipes, according to a new advisory from the Palos Park Police Department.
According to the department, freezing temperatures can cause water inside plumbing lines to solidify and expand, potentially leading to ruptured pipes, interior flooding, and costly repairs. Police noted that several communities in the Chicago Southland area—including Palos Park, Orland Park, Lemont, and nearby unincorporated Cook County—are especially vulnerable as wind chills are expected to drop well below freezing throughout the day.
In a public safety post shared early Wednesday, officials advised homeowners to trap heat indoors by ensuring windows are tightly sealed, covering in-window air-conditioning units, and filling in gaps around exterior doors and floors where cold air can leak into the home.
The American Red Cross also recommends simple steps to reduce the likelihood of frozen pipes, including opening cabinet doors to allow warm air to circulate around indoor plumbing, letting cold water drip from faucets at a light trickle, and keeping thermostat settings above 55 degrees Fahrenheit—even overnight or during short trips away from home.
Police said these preventive measures are especially important for older homes or properties with plumbing near exterior walls, where temperatures drop quickly when cold fronts arrive.
The Chicago area is expected to remain in a deep freeze through the end of the week, and officials warn that pipe-related emergencies typically rise during extended cold spells. Residents experiencing reduced water flow or suspected pipe damage are urged to contact professional plumbers immediately and avoid attempting repairs on their own.
This article was produced by a journalist and may include AI-assisted input. All content is reviewed for accuracy and fairness.
Follow us on Instagram & Facebook for more relevant news stories and SUPPORT LOCAL INDEPENDENT NEWS! Have a tip? Message us!
