Plumbing

Emergency Plumbing: What to Do Before the Professionals Arrive

July 8, 2025

Plumbing Team

6 min read

Emergency Plumbing: What to Do Before the Professionals Arrive

When plumbing emergencies strike, every minute counts. Knowing what to do before our professional plumbers arrive can minimize damage, ensure safety, and help our team provide faster, more effective service.

🚨 Immediate Safety Measures

The first priority in any plumbing emergency is safety for you and your family.

🛑

Shut Off Water: Locate and turn off your main water shutoff valve immediately

⚡

Avoid Electricity: Never use electrical appliances near water or in wet areas

🏠

Evacuate if Needed: Leave the area if there's risk of electrical shock or gas leaks

🔧 Common Plumbing Emergencies & First Steps

💧 Burst Pipes

Shut off water, contain water with towels/ buckets, move valuables to higher ground

🚰 Toilet Overflow

Stop using toilet, shut off water to toilet, use plunger or drain snake if safe

🛁 Flooding

Turn off water, remove standing water, use wet/dry vacuum if available

🔥 Water Heater Issues

Turn off gas/electricity, shut off water, evacuate if leaking or making noises

📞 What to Tell Our Emergency Plumber

When you call, provide these key details to help us respond effectively.

Clear communication helps our emergency team arrive prepared with the right tools and materials for your specific situation.

Essential Information

Location and extent of the problem
When the issue started and what you observed
Actions you've already taken
Access information (gate codes, parking)
Contact information and preferred times

🛠️ Tools to Have Ready

Keep these basic plumbing tools on hand for minor issues and emergencies.

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Adjustable Wrench: For shutting off valves and basic repairs

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Plunger: Essential for toilet clogs and minor drain issues

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Drain Snake: For clearing minor clogs in sinks and showers

💧 Water Damage Prevention

While waiting for help, protect your home from further water damage.

🧽 Absorb Water

Use towels, mops, or wet/dry vacuum to remove standing water

💨 Improve Airflow

Open windows and use fans to dry affected areas

📦 Protect Belongings

Move furniture and valuables away from wet areas

⏰ Response Time Expectations

Understanding our emergency response process helps set realistic expectations.

Emergency Response Times

Severe flooding or gas leaks: Within 30 minutes
Major pipe bursts: Within 1 hour
Overflowing toilets/sinks: Within 2 hours
Minor leaks: Same business day

Don't wait when plumbing emergencies occur—call Handyman In A Box immediately. Our 24/7 emergency service ensures your home is protected around the clock.