Throughout the day the temperature in Meridian pretty much stayed at or around freezing. With more days of such weather on the way, locals are braving the cold by bundling up.

Although for some a welcomed change, city officials say the frigid temperatures are causing some problems.

"We've gotten a lot of calls. We haven't had any problems with the city operations but residents have had some problems with some freezing pipes," said Monty Jackson, the director for Meridian Public Works.

Although only a hand full stayed at South Harbor Shelter Thursday night, officials with Multi-County Community Service Agency say many people are still seeking other assistance.

"We've had a large number of calls with people needing energy assistance," said center director Callie Cole. "Of course we're working with all of the clients who have energy needs."

Although the cold weather is a hindrance for some, there are others who view it quite differently. For instance, one homeowner on 10th Avenue even let his outside hydrant drain water on his car all night, all in hopes of creating a huge iceberg.

Although perhaps pleasing to the eye, extensive ice can be a pain to pipes. That's why residents are being reminded to wrap any exposed water pipes. If desired you can even use heated tape, which can be bought at almost any hardware store.

Like the old saying goes, "It's better to be safe, than sorry!"

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Avoid Frozen Pipes

• Cover foundation vents with foam blocks or thickly folded newspaper to prevent cold winds from entering and freezing pipes.

• Turn off and drain sprinkler systems and backflow devices.

• Disconnect hoses from outside faucets and drain hoses.

• Wrap outside faucets with foam covers or towels.

• Know the location of and shut-off procedure for your main shut-off valve.

• Open cupboard doors under sinks where the plumbing is in an outside wall. (The interior heat will help warm the pipes.)

• Temporarily, keep a steady drip of cold water at an inside faucet, farther from the meter. (This keeps the water moving, making it less likely to freeze.)

If Your Pipes Burst

• Shut off the water and the water heater.

• If you are unable to find the shut-off valve, or have water leaking in the house from a broken pipe, contact your local water department.

Source: Web Reports contributed to this report.