Winter can be a beautiful season, but it also brings certain challenges, like preventing your pipes from freezing. Frozen pipes can burst and cause extensive water damage, leaving homeowners with hefty repair bills. Fortunately, there are several steps you can take to safeguard your plumbing from freezing temperatures. Here’s how to keep your pipes warm and your home safe.

1. Insulate Your Pipes

One of the most effective ways to prevent freezing is to insulate your pipes, especially those located in unheated areas like basements, attics, and crawl spaces. Pipe insulation sleeves, heat tape, and heat cables can be easily found at your local hardware store and are simple to install.

2. Seal Leaks and Drafts

Cold air can enter your home through leaks and drafts, increasing the risk of frozen pipes. Seal any cracks or openings around windows, doors, and vents with caulking or weather stripping. Don’t forget to check for gaps in the walls where pipes enter your home.

3. Keep the Thermostat Consistent

Maintain a consistent temperature in your home, even when you’re away. Set your thermostat to no lower than 55°F (13°C) to ensure your pipes stay warm enough to prevent freezing. It might slightly increase your heating bill, but it’s a small price to pay compared to the cost of repairing burst pipes.

4. Open Cabinet Doors

In particularly cold weather, open the cabinet doors under your kitchen and bathroom sinks. This allows warm air to circulate around the pipes, reducing the likelihood of freezing.

5. Let Faucets Drip

During extreme cold snaps, let your faucets drip slightly. Running water, even at a trickle, is less likely to freeze. This is particularly important for faucets connected to pipes in unheated areas.

6. Disconnect Outdoor Hoses

Before winter sets in, disconnect and drain outdoor hoses. Shut off the water supply to outdoor faucets and drain the lines to prevent water from freezing and expanding, which can cause pipes to burst.

7. Install Frost-Proof Faucets

Consider installing frost-proof faucets for outdoor spigots. These are designed to keep the water further inside the house where it’s warmer, reducing the risk of freezing.

8. Use Heating Cables or Heat Tape

For especially vulnerable pipes, use heating cables or heat tape. These products are designed to provide consistent heat and can prevent pipes from freezing in extremely cold temperatures. Make sure to follow the manufacturer’s instructions for safe installation and use.

9. Monitor and Maintain Your Heating System

Ensure your heating system is in good working order. Schedule regular maintenance and inspect it for any issues. A well-functioning heating system is crucial to maintaining a warm environment and preventing frozen pipes.

With a little preparation and the right precautions, you can keep your pipes from freezing and avoid the headaches of water damage and costly repairs. Remember, the key is to keep the cold out and the warmth in. Stay warm and enjoy a worry-free winter!

Tragic Fire at Telegraph Cove: Rebuilding with Hope

On December 31, 2024, a devastating fire ravaged a significant portion of the historic boardwalk in Telegraph Cove, resulting in the loss of the Whale Interpretive Centre (WIC) and its invaluable collection of marine mammal skeletons and educational resources.

However, the unwavering support from the board of directors, local communities, and well-wishers around the world has reignited hope and determination. Together, we’re committed to rebuilding the WIC and the community of Telegraph Cove.

Thank you to everyone who has offered support and stands with us. Every contribution, regardless of size, will directly fund the rebuilding process. Your generosity will help us create a new WIC in the coming year.

Click here to visit the fundraising page.

Catherine, a pilot in training at Sealand Aviation in Campbell River has made a name for herself with a recent accomplishment. She is the first student pilot in Canada to take a solo flight (without an instructor) while flying an electric airplane in a Velis Electro.

A cedar waxwing brings a gift of a dragonfly for its partner (summer photo) in British Columbia.

Phone

778.386.5167

Email

Dene@FotoMoods.com

Web

Fotomoods.com

Snow is expected to start Friday evening and continue into Saturday, with more snow coming.

• Ensure you have chains that fit your vehicle, know how to use them, and plan to use them.
• Chains may be required both up and down the access road. Vehicles without chains will be denied access.
• Make sure your chains are the right size and in good condition.
• Tire chains are often required for all vehicles, including 4x4s with good snow tires.
• Unprepared drivers put everyone at risk.
• Bring a shovel in case you need to dig out.

Telegraph Cove Resort, a cherished destination on the northeast corner of Vancouver Island, faced a devastating structural fire in the early hours of December 31, 2024. The fire left parts of the resort smouldering, marking a tragic end to the year. Key areas affected included a portion of the boardwalk, the Old Saltery Pub, Killer Whale Café, Wastell Manor heritage house, Whale Interpretive Centre, Prince of Whales offices, and staff housing.

The resort has deep roots in the community, tracing back to Gordie and Marilyn Graham’s acquisition in 1979. Initially a campground and marina, it became a formal resort in the early 1980s, drawing visitors from across Canada and beyond. Its picturesque setting and historic charm have made it a cornerstone of Telegraph Cove.

The impact of the fire has resonated deeply with the Graham family, the local community, seasonal staff, and businesses reliant on the resort’s operations. “This resort isn’t just a business to us—it is our home, our history, and our legacy,” said Gordie Graham. “As my wife and I near retirement, we are heartbroken to see our life’s work, built with my own hands, go up in flames. While we are grateful no one was harmed, we are living through one of our worst nightmares.”

The fire’s cause is under investigation by local authorities. While the financial losses are significant, the emotional toll is immeasurable.

Demonstrating resilience, the family acknowledges the need for time and support to rebuild. “Telegraph Cove has always been a place of connection and renewal. Today, we mourn, but we also look to the future with hope. We’ve been overwhelmed by the support and concern from our community,” said Marilyn Graham. “Every message is deeply appreciated.”

Image and video credit to the Alert Bay Fire Department.

The Telegraph Cove Resort website is posting updates.