Something wrong at home? Choose what’s happening for immediate first steps and who to call.
Immediate danger comes first. If you suspect a fire or gas leak, or a carbon monoxide alarm sounds, get everyone out and call 911 from a safe location. Do not delay for photos, shutoffs, belongings, or repair calls. If fire blocks your escape, close the door between you and the fire, call 911, and tell the dispatcher where you are.
What’s Happening?
You smell gas or suspect a gas leak.
A carbon monoxide alarm is sounding.
You see smoke or suspect a fire.
Sparking, burning odors, or unsafe electrical equipment.
Water from a fixture, appliance, ceiling, or unknown source.
A broken household pipe is releasing water.
Standing or rising water in the basement.
Wastewater is backing up into your home.
Rain is entering through the roof during a storm.
A tree or limb has fallen on your property or home.
Cooling has stopped and the home is getting hot.
Heating has stopped and the home is getting cold.
The power is out or essential equipment has stopped.
Once the Immediate Danger Is Handled
Return to these resources once people are safe and the urgent problem is under control.
- After a water leak: your first 24 hours — cleanup, documentation, and follow-up.
- Homeowners Insurance Claim Toolkit — organize your insurance conversation.
- SmartHire Contractor Kit — prepare for repair and hiring decisions.
- Prioritize home repairs — sort the work that comes next.
Prepare When You Have Time to Think
Keep your emergency contacts and household shutoff locations in one place. Save or print the fillable Home Emergency Quick Reference (PDF).
For future water leaks, explore leak sensors and automatic shutoff systems.