Emergency Home Guide

Smell gas? Leave immediately. Don't flip switches. Call 911 from outside.

• Do NOT flip any light switches or use electronics
• Do NOT light matches or use any open flame
• Leave the building immediately
• Call 911 from outside the property
• Call your gas company from outside
• Do not re-enter until cleared by authorities

Turn off water main. Don't touch electricity if standing in water.

• Locate and shut off the main water valve
• If standing in water, do NOT touch electrical outlets or appliances
• Turn off power at the breaker if safe to access
• Move valuables and furniture to higher ground
• Document damage with photos for insurance
• Call a water damage restoration professional

Sparking outlets or burning smell? Turn off breaker. Call 911 if fire.

• If you see sparks or smell burning, go to your breaker panel
• Turn off the affected circuit breaker
• If there is a fire, evacuate immediately and call 911
• Do not use water on an electrical fire
• Unplug appliances from the affected outlet if safe
• Call a licensed electrician for repairs

CO alarm going off? Leave immediately. Call 911 from outside.

• Do not ignore a CO alarm — it is a life-threatening emergency
• Evacuate everyone in the home immediately
• Call 911 from outside the building
• Do not re-enter until emergency responders say it is safe
• Open windows and doors if you can do so quickly on your way out
• Have your HVAC system inspected before reoccupying

No heat in winter or AC in summer? Here's what to do first.

• Check your thermostat: is it set correctly and has power?
• Check the air filter — a clogged filter can shut down the system
• Check the breaker: has the HVAC circuit tripped?
• If no heat in winter, prevent pipes from freezing by letting faucets drip
• If no AC in summer, keep blinds closed and windows shut during the day
• Call a licensed HVAC technician for repairs

Turn off water main immediately. Open faucets to drain lines.

• Turn off the main water shutoff valve immediately
• Open all faucets to drain remaining water from the pipes
• Turn off the water heater to prevent damage
• Mop up standing water to prevent mold and floor damage
• Document damage with photos for insurance
• Call a plumber for emergency repairs

Stay away from the damaged area. Call 911 if anyone is hurt.

• If anyone is injured, call 911 immediately
• Evacuate the damaged area of the home
• Do not attempt to remove the tree yourself
• Watch for sagging ceilings or cracking walls
• Call a tree removal service with insurance
• Contact your insurance company to file a claim

Place bucket under leak. Move valuables. Don't walk on wet ceiling.

• Place a bucket or container under the leak to catch water
• Move furniture, electronics, and valuables away from the leak
• Do NOT walk on a wet or sagging ceiling — it could collapse
• Poke a small hole in the ceiling to let water drain into a bucket
• Cover furniture with plastic sheeting or tarps
• Call a roofer for temporary tarping and repair

Don't touch electrical. Pump water out. Document for insurance.

• Do NOT enter standing water if the power is on
• Turn off power to the basement at the breaker if safe to access
• Use a sump pump or wet/dry vacuum to remove water
• Remove wet items and move them outside or to dry area
• Document everything with photos for insurance
• Run dehumidifiers and fans to prevent mold growth