RSN is pleased to work with Affinity Water in a number of areas. The message they give here would be universal in respect of all the water companies across England. Each of these companies will operate a Priority Services Register for their area. We very much encourage people to check their eligibility for signing up to their companies Priority Services Register and to seek to sign up if they feel they are eligible.

With colder weather approaching, we are asking stakeholders and customers to ensure they are ready to prevent freezing pipes this winter.

Any homes and businesses left empty are particularly at risk and should be protected against possible freezing and bursts.

The simple actions below will make a big difference once temperatures start dropping:

• Insulate outside taps and exposed water pipes in lofts and outside

• Insulate cold water tanks

• Check that external and internal stop taps are working so supplies can be turned off in an emergency

• If it’s very cold outside leave central heating on a low setting overnight

• If leaving homes and business unattended for a long period, turn off the water supply at the stop tap. Consider leaving the heating on a low setting

• Fix dripping taps – even a small trickle can lead to a frozen pipe.

For more information and videos about coping with cold weather visit: www.affinitywater.co.uk/winter