How to Be Prepared for a Plumbing Emergency

Are your home pipes confusing you?

If plumbing is your worst nightmare, then consider some of these easy steps to be better prepared for a home plumbing emergency. You don't need to know how to fix the problem, but you will need to know where your wrenches and other tools are to help you get started. Fom there it just requires the right tools on hand and a little quick thinking to keep a plumbing emergency from damaging your home and goods.

Things You'll Need

• Time to explore your home
• A plunger
• The right kind of wrench

Instructions

1. Store valuables above floor level. If you have a basement that you use for storage, consider installing high shelves for your precious things like photographs or childhood toys. You can get them to higher ground in case of flood. You may also wish to store them in the attic.

2. Learn where your water main is located and how to turn it off. Find the appropriate wrench to shut it off, and store it in the area of the valve.

3. Learn how to shut off water to your appliances, including sinks, toilets and your kitchen appliances. This is done by turning the shutoff valve behind or under these appliances.

4. Know the location of any tools that you need to shut off water to a specific location or to the main valve.

5. Be prepared with the number of a trusted friend, relative or plumber who you can call to fix the problem.

Tips & Warnings

• Turn the water off, then clean up.

• Always keep a plunger handy!