I am aware that I should be putting on another layer of clothing as the weather is getting decidedly cooler, especially first thing and in the evenings. Before you know it winter will be upon us.

With the frequent cold snaps we experienced last winter there was a notable increase in the number of burst pipes. Now, if you are lucky enough to actually be a plumber then this won’t present a problem for you. At least I hope it won’t!

For those of us who aren’t plumbers, here’s a quick check list to help you minimise damage and get the problem sorted quickly.

Dealing with a burst pipe:

1. Turn off the water supply at the stopcock
2. Open up all the taps to cut the danger of flooding

3. Use towels to block the flow of water and prevent the flooding getting into other rooms
4. Turn off all taps until the pipes have been repaired
5. Call a plumber

Actually, I know people who will be stumped by step 1 – where is my stopcock? Here are the usual places to find it:

• Near the boiler
• In the airing cupboard
• In a cupboard in the kitchen or bathroom
• By the front door, usually behind a removable panel