When faced with a plumbing emergency there are definitely different degrees of emergency. A leaky faucet may be a category 1 emergency, while a burst pipe could be considered a category 4 or 5 emergency. One of the most important things to keep in mind when dealing with a plumbing emergency is safety; regardless of how severe the situation is. That’s why we are offering you some safety tips to help you navigate any plumbing emergency.
#1 Stay Calm
When dealing with any sort of emergency, it is always important to stay calm. Plumbing emergencies can cause one to start panicking, however, it is important to remember that if you are panicked, you may not be able to make the best decisions. So, take a deep breath and try to relax. Trust that everything is going to be ok.
#2 Access the Situation
The next step is to access the situation. Access the area and the damage. Can you ascertain where the issue is? If there is an imminent threat, access the situation from afar, there is no need to put yourself in harm’s way, however, you should try to get your bearings and a grasp of the situation at hand.
#3 Turn Off Power
One major safety threat when it comes to a plumbing emergency is an electrical shock. Water and electricity do not mix, so if there is an eminent threat of electrical shock, evacuate the premises. If you are aware of where the power supply is and can easily get to it, shut off the power and wait for the professionals.
#4 Turn Off Water
One of the biggest causes of concerns when it comes to a plumbing emergency is a flood. To prevent flooding and the associated water damage, shut off the water supply. If it is localized, like a flooding toilet, you can turn the water supply off behind the fixture. However, if it is a burst pipe, you should turn off the main water supply. Familiarize yourself with where the main water supply is located. Sometimes the main water supply is around the foundation of the home, or sometimes it is located underground on the sidewalk or in the yard.
#5 Call the Professionals
It is important to call a professional plumber right away. The faster the response, the less room there is for damage and safety concerns. Have the number to your preferred plumber readily available.
A plumbing emergency can be stressful, one of the best modes of defense is to simply be prepared. Locate the main water supply line and electrical panel, keep the plastic wrap on hand to protect surrounding areas and personal belonging, and have your plumber’s contact information accessible. For more information on plumbing emergencies and how to stay save contact Courtesy Plumbing today!
