1.   Be sure to start thawing the pipe nearest the tap.

2.   A propane torch will also thaw pipes, but the risk of fire is great.

3.   If you thaw a pipe farther away from the tap, water could be trapped behind the ice block and could turn to steam, rupturing the pipe.

4.   If you thaw the pipe at the other end of the freeze, melted ice will be blocked by unmelted ice and you could have an explosion.

5.   Other ways to thaw pipes, at least those that are exposed, is to wrap a towel around the pipe and pour very hot water over the towel.

6.   There are several ways to thaw frozen pipes all of which require guarding against water damage.

7.   You can also thaw pipes by wrapping them with cloth and pouring hot water on the cloth.

8.   Residents of one building tried to thaw their pipes with welding torches, and burned down two apartments on the first floor.