If you observe that there is no flooding, however, your faucet is only trickling water, or there is no water at all, be sure your main water valve is on. If it is, then you should suspect that you have a frozen pipe. Here are some directions for how to thaw it:

• Apply heat to the section of pipe using an electric heating pad wrapped around the pipe, electric hair dryer, a portable space heater (kept away from flammable materials), or by wrapping pipes with towels soaked in hot water.
   
• Do not use a blowtorch, kerosene or propane heater, charcoal stove or other open flame device.
   
• Do not let a heating pad, hair dryer, or other electrical device come into contact with water.
   
• Do not leave any heat source unattended at any time.
   
• Keep the faucet open. As you treat the frozen pipe and the frozen area begins to melt, water will begin to flow through the frozen area. Running water through the pipe will help melt more ice in the pipe.
   
• If your house or basement is flooding, turn off the water valve if you can locate it and call 911.
   
• DO NOT TRY TO THAW A BURST PIPE THAT HAS RESULTED IN FLOODING! THIS COULD CAUSE ELECTROCUTION!
   
• If you are unable to locate the frozen area, if the frozen area is not accessible, or if you can not thaw the pipe, call a licensed plumber.
  
  
• Be sure to check all of the other pipes in your home to be sure further freezing has not occurred.
   

 
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