What To Do First

Water emergency right now? Follow these steps in order.

1. Stay safe. If water is near outlets, cords or the breaker panel, stay out and call for help.
2. Stop the water. Shut off the main water valve (often near the street or where the line enters the house).
3. Turn off power to wet areas at the breaker only if you can reach it without standing in water.
4. Take photos and video of everything before moving or throwing anything away.
5. Call your insurance company to start a claim and ask what they cover.
6. Move valuables and furniture off wet floors; put foil under furniture legs.
7. Start drying — open windows if it is dry outside, run fans and AC. Do not use a household vacuum on water.
8. Call a restoration pro quickly; mold can start growing in 24–48 hours.

Don'ts

• Don't walk through standing water near electricity
• Don't use a regular household vacuum to suck up water
• Don't turn on ceiling fans or lights if the ceiling is wet or sagging
• Don't touch floodwater without gloves and boots — it may be contaminated
• Don't throw out damaged items before your insurer documents them