What to Do When a Pipe Bursts

Shut off the water first. Then protect people from electricity and falling materials before trying to save property.

Emergency checklist

1. Close the main water valve.
2. Open a faucet at the lowest practical level to relieve pressure.
3. Keep everyone away from sagging ceilings and wet electrical fixtures.
4. Call a plumber for the failed line and water-damage help for affected materials.
5. Photograph rooms, damaged materials, and the suspected source.
6. Move dry belongings only when the path is safe.

Do not do these things

• Do not use an open flame to thaw pipe.
• Do not restore water before the split is repaired.
• Do not enter water near energized equipment.
• Do not assume a surface is dry because the stain stopped growing.

Information to have ready

Note when the water was discovered, whether the supply is off, which level and rooms are affected, and whether water reached electrical, heating, or finished ceiling areas.