CHESTERFIELD, Va. (WRIC) - With frigid temperatures expected to grip the region this weekend, homeowners are urged to take precautions to prevent frozen pipes. "Any pipes on the outside walls are normally the first to freeze," said T.J. Brown, master plumber with Michael and Son Services. Brown emphasized that the first line of defense is to turn off outdoor faucets and disconnect hoses. He also recommended covering these faucets with insulation available at any home supply store. (T.J. Brown holding a newer outdoor faucet in his hands, explaining how the water freezes.) It's also important to know where your homes main water shutoff valve is and how to access it. "You definitely want to be aware in case you do have an issue where something is freezing," said Brown. Jeff Caldwell, spokesperson for the Virginia Department of Emergency Management, said the most recent snowfall has helped the agency be more prepared for this cold weather. Caldwell said leaving your cabinet doors open to allow heat to access pipes in the walls is another good idea. "Especially on exterior walls so that heat can get into those exposed pipes," said Caldwell. Lastly, a simple yet effective measure is to let your faucets drip overnight. "You want to be a water conservative. You don't want to run too much water at one time. You know, only really pipes on the exterior walls are going to be more likely to freeze." said Brown. Caldwell said it's important to repeat those efforts during the next several days to ensure your pipes don't refreeze. For more home preparedness tips from The Virginia Department of Emergency Management, click here.