Emergency Guide
Emergency Safety Guide
Critical steps to take during plumbing emergencies. Knowing what to do immediately can prevent injury and minimize damage.
How to Shut Off Water
Main Water Shutoff
- 1Locate your main shutoff valve (usually near the water meter, in the basement, or where the main line enters)
- 2Turn the valve clockwise (righty-tighty) until it stops
- 3For gate valves, turn fully closed. May take several turns
- 4For ball valves, turn the lever perpendicular to the pipe
- 5Open a faucet after shutting off to release pressure and confirm it's off
Tip: Label your main shutoff valve and make sure everyone in your household knows where it is.
Fixture Shutoff Valves
- 1Look under sinks, behind toilets, and near appliances for individual shutoffs
- 2Turn clockwise to close
- 3If the valve is stuck, don't force it. You may break it
- 4Use these when possible to avoid shutting off water to the whole house
Tip: Test fixture shutoffs annually to make sure they work when you need them.
When to Avoid Electricity
Water and electricity are a deadly combination. Follow these safety rules:
- If water is near electrical outlets, switch off power at the breaker before touching anything
- Never stand in water when operating electrical panels or switches
- If your electrical panel is in a flooded area, call an electrician before entering
- Unplug appliances that may have been exposed to water
- Don't use electrical appliances in wet areas until a professional confirms safety
- If you smell burning or see sparks, evacuate and call 911
Gas Leak Safety
If you smell gas:
- 1Do NOT flip any switches. Including lights, fans, or appliances
- 2Do NOT use your phone inside. Sparks can ignite gas
- 3Leave immediately. Get everyone out, including pets
- 4Call 911 from outside. Or your gas company's emergency line
- 5Stay away. Don't re-enter until cleared by fire department or gas company
When to Evacuate
- You smell gas (leave immediately, don't flip any switches)
- Sewage is backing up into multiple fixtures
- Flooding is too rapid to control
- Water is near your electrical panel
- You see or smell smoke related to water/electrical contact
- The structure seems unstable due to water damage
When to Call 911
- !You smell gas and cannot locate or close the gas valve
- !There's an electrical fire or sparking near water
- !Someone has been injured
- !Flooding is creating a structural danger
- !You're trapped or unable to safely evacuate
24/7 Emergency Service Available
Having a plumbing emergency right now?
Describe your situation to get connected with help immediately
Your photo is analyzed by AI and never stored. AI assessments are informational only. See our Terms of Service for details.
Or tap a common issue:
Licensed & Insured
CSLB License Verified
24/7 Available