Most of us know what to do when the Wi-Fi stops working. But what about when a pipe suddenly bursts at 11pm? The power goes out in half the house? You smell gas? Water starts coming through the ceiling?
In a home emergency, the first few minutes can make a huge difference to the amount of damage caused – yet many homeowners have never been shown what to do.
So, how prepared are you?
WATER IS POURING FROM A BURST PIPE…
First: If it’s safe and accessible, turn off your home’s main water supply. Every homeowner should know where their water meter and main shut-off valve are located before they need them.
Then turn on a cold tap to help relieve pressure in the system and call a licensed plumber.
SPRING CHALLENGE: Find your water shut-off today and make sure every adult in the house knows where it is.
THE POWER HAS GONE OUT IN ONE PART OF THE HOUSE…
Before repeatedly flicking the safety switch back on, stop and think.
An appliance or electrical fault may be causing the circuit to trip.
Unplug appliances from the affected area and check your switchboard. If the safety switch continues to trip, don’t keep resetting it – have the fault investigated by a licensed electrician.
YOU CAN SMELL GAS…
Don’t try to find the leak yourself.
Avoid flames and anything that could create a spark. If safe to do so, turn off the gas supply, ventilate the area, move everyone outside and contact the appropriate emergency service or a licensed gas professional.
WATER IS COMING THROUGH A LIGHT FITTING…
Water + electricity = don’t take chances.
Don’t touch the fitting, surrounding switches or wet areas.
If it is safe to access your switchboard without going near water, isolate the power and call a licensed electrician and plumber.
YOUR HOT WATER SYSTEM IS LEAKING EVERYWHERE…
A small amount of condensation can be normal for some systems. A large or continuous leak isn’t.
Don’t attempt to dismantle the system yourself. Keep people away from the area and call a licensed professional.
Service Today is available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week for plumbing, electrical and heating & cooling emergencies.
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