Burst water pipes aren't reserved for foreclosed and abandoned homes in these frigid times. Pipes can burst in occupied homes without sufficient insulation or heating, which has been happening in Tarrytown and Sleepy Hollow lately.
There have been eight burst pipe calls to police in the villages since temperatures took a dip in late January. Fire crews, DPW, police and building inspectors have come out in force to pump out and help out citizens in these situations, but officials also urge residents to practice prevention when they can.
Sleepy Hollow Police Chief Gregory Camp cautions citizens to insulate pipes and seal areas where drafts may blow onto pipes, especially in cold or unheated areas of the home.
Tarrytown Fire Chief Eugene Gaspare advises the same, adding, "If any one has not done so, turn off your outside water (garden hose)." And, still confused or need further help? Contact your plumber.
Patch 'Home Guru' William Primavera offers more tips on guarding your home from burst pipes here.
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In Tarrytown:
- On Jan. 24 at 1:39 a.m., a homeowner called to report a burst pipe in her unit at the Quay Condominiums. The officer requested the fire department for a pump out. The Tarrytown Fire Department shut off the water to the house and pumped out the existing water in the unit.
- On the same day at 10:20 a.m., a John Street caller requested assistance with shutting off water in the residence because of a burst pipe. Officers assisted and caller advised to follow up with plumber.
- At 4:54 p.m., the fire department responded to another John Street residence for a pump put. The Fire Chief requested the DPW be notified to shut off the water at the street. Fire Department shut down the water and electric to the house. Homeowner was on the scene.
- A caller reported a possible water main break near Browning Lane/Walnut Street on Jan. 26, 12:23 a.m. Police reported water was coming from the interior of a Front Street residence. An officer made contact with tenant who stated he notified the homeowner of the water condition and the tenant was able to turn the water off.
- On Jan. 28 at 4:32 a.m., a caller reported a general fire alarm sounding at EF School at 100 Marymount Avenue. Tarrytown Fire Department responded and reported it was a broken water pipe that would be handled by school maintenance.
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In Sleepy Hollow:
- A caller on Jan. 26 at 8:08 p.m. on 218 Beekman Avenue said he required a pump out due to a large amount of water coming into his basement from a broken pipe. Officers sent and requested the fire department to assist. The DPW foreman said the water department needed to be contacted since a pipe had burst in the street.
- A caller on Jan. 28 at 6:50 p.m., said there was water coming out of 100 Beekman Avenue and it looked like there was a broken pipe in the building. Officers confirmed that water was coming out of the building; both water and building departments were responding. The building owner was on scene. The sprinkler system was turned off until repairs could be made. Police notified the fire department that the sprinkler system was down until further notice.
- On Jan. 29 at 7:13 a.m., an Elm Street caller reported hearing water running inside an abandoned house nearby. He believed a pipe may have burst in the basement. Officers responded and confirmed, contacting the DPW and the building inspector. Officers also reported finding a hypodermic needle on the front porch that they said they would be disposing of at Phelps Memorial Hospital.
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