It’s that time of year again, when if you’re not careful pipes can freeze.

Pipes that freeze most frequently are those exposed to severe cold, like outdoor hose bibs, swimming pool supply lines, water sprinkler lines, water supply lines in unheated interior areas and pipes that run against exterior walls that have little or no insulation, according to the American Red Cross.

The agency suggests doing a series of things before the onset of cold weather to protect your pipes from freezing, as well as several things to do once the cold weather is here.

• Drain water from swimming pool and water supply lines. Do not put antifreeze in these lines unless directed.

• Remove, drain and store hoses used outdoors.

• Add insulation to attics, basements and crawl spaces. This will help maintain higher temperatures in those areas.

• Check for areas in the home where water supply lines are in unheated areas and insulate those pipes.

• Consider relocating exposed pipes.

• Keep garage doors closed if there are water supply lines in the garage.

• Open kitchen and bathroom cabinet doors to allow warmer air to circulate around the plumbing.

• Let cold water drip from the faucet.

• Keep the thermostat set to the same temperature both during the day and at night.

• Leave the heat on in your home if going away during the cold weather — at a temperature no lower than 55°F.

We still have at least a couple months of winter left. Avoid the headache and costs associated with frozen pipes.