Safety first
Some situations require emergency help before restoration.
Leave the area and contact emergency services, the fire department, the gas utility, the electric utility, or another proper authority when immediate danger is present.
Stop and leave the area
Do not treat these as normal service calls.
Electricity or downed service
Standing water near circuits, equipment, outlets, wiring, or a service panel can create shock risk. Do not turn power on or off while standing in water.
Contact the electric utility, emergency services, or a qualified electrician from a dry and safe location.Fire, smoke, or gas odor
Leave immediately when there is fire, smoke, a suspected gas leak, or anything that could ignite.
Contact emergency services or the gas utility. Do not create sparks or reenter until cleared.Structural movement or collapse risk
Visible cracks, shifting, sagging, fallen materials, or obvious impact damage can make reentry unsafe.
Stay out and seek an appropriate structural or emergency assessment.Sewage or visibly contaminated water
Floodwater and wastewater may contain sewage, chemicals, debris, and microorganisms.
Avoid contact and keep children, pets, and vulnerable occupants away.Myth correction
Getting there faster is not more important than entering safely.
CDC guidance says never turn electrical power on or off or use an electric tool while standing in water. CDC also advises staying out of floodwater because its contents are unknown and may include sewage, chemicals, debris, and downed power lines.