The Town of Deep River, Ontario, is advising residents to take immediate steps to protect their plumbing from the cold weather. This warning follows a major watermain break on January 24, 2026, and aims to help homeowners avoid expensive repair costs and service interruptions during the winter.
The municipal Public Works department recommends that residents insulate water pipes located near outside walls or in crawl spaces, seal air leaks in their homes, and use heat tape on pipes that are at high risk of freezing.
Many homes in the community have cast-iron service pipes dating to the 1950s, which are more vulnerable as frost depths increase. The town’s Public Works guidance draws on historical repairs and rehabilitation work addressing aging cast-iron mains in the community.
David McCarthy, the Director of Operations for the town, oversees the technical guidance in the advisory. The town may also issue specific “Run Water” notices to certain properties asking them to keep a tap running to help prevent water service lines from freezing.
Mayor Suzanne D’Eon is exercising her expanded “Strong Mayor” powers in directing the town’s 2026 municipal budget, which includes proposed funding for upgrades to the local Water Treatment Plant. Residents are reminded that, under usual municipal practice and bylaws, homeowners are typically responsible for the costs of repairing frozen pipes when the freeze occurs on private property.
