A Homeowner’s Guide to 12 Common Home Emergencies: What to Do When Disaster Hits
Homeownership comes with a lot of joy, but it can also bring its fair share of surprises—especially the not-so-fun kind. From bursting pipes to unexpected fires, home emergencies can strike at any moment, leaving you feeling overwhelmed and unsure of what to do next.
In this guide, we’ll cover 12 common disasters homeowners face and provide practical steps you can take to handle each situation. Because let’s face it—nobody wants to deal with these problems, but being prepared can help you respond quickly and confidently. You’ll learn not just what to do in the moment but also some tips to minimize damage and stress.
1. Water Damage from Burst Pipe
Burst pipes are a common yet stressful homeowner nightmare. Not only can they lead to significant damage, but they can also result in mold growth if not handled quickly.
What to Do:
- Shut off the Main Water Valve: First things first—stop the water flow! Knowing where your main water valve is located can save you a lot of headaches.
- Document the Damage: Take clear photos of the burst pipe and make a list of what’s affected. This will be invaluable for your insurance claim. If you’re unsure how to navigate this process, check out the National Association of Insurance Commissioners for tips on filing claims.
- Call a Professional: Time is of the essence. Reach out to a water damage restoration service, like Austin Hi-Tech Restoration, that offers 24/7 support. They’ll extract water, dry everything out, and set the stage for repairs, keeping mold at bay.
Read more: Protect Against Frozen Pipes in Austin
2. Kitchen Fire from Cooking Accidents
Most kitchen fires start small but can escalate quickly.
What to Do:
- Use a Fire Extinguisher: If a small fire erupts, grab your fire extinguisher. Remember, it’s “PASS”: Pull, Aim, Squeeze, and Sweep. This can make a world of difference.
- Evacuate if Necessary: If things get out of control, don’t hesitate—get out! Call 911 once you’re safe.
- Assess Damage After: Once the kitchen fire is out, it’s time to get back in. Call a fire damage restoration service to help with smoke damage, which can linger and cause health issues.
3. Gas Leak in the Home
Gas leaks can be deadly, so you must act quickly if you suspect one.
What to Do:
- Evacuate Immediately: Get everyone out, including pets. Safety is the top priority!
- Avoid Electronics: Don’t use your phone or flip any switches until you’re at a safe distance. A single spark could ignite the gas.
- Report It: Once you’re safe, call your gas company to investigate. They have the expertise to handle the situation properly.
4. Flooding from Severe Weather
In Texas, heavy rains can quickly turn a calm day into a flood warning.
What to Do:
- Move to Higher Ground: If your home is in a flood-prone area, it’s crucial to know where to go. Find your local emergency shelter or move to higher ground.
- Turn Off Utilities: If time allows, switch off your electricity and gas to prevent further hazards.
- Contact Restoration Services: After the waters recede, call a restoration company to assess damage and begin the recovery process. They can also assist with navigating insurance claims.
5. Sewage Backup in the Basement
A sewage backup is not just gross—it’s a major health hazard.
What to Do:
- Avoid Contact: Don’t go near the sewage water. It can contain harmful bacteria and viruses.
- Shut Off the Water Supply: Prevent more sewage from entering your home by shutting off the main water supply.
- Call a Cleanup Service: Professional sewage cleanup services are equipped to handle these messes safely and effectively. They’ll also ensure your home is disinfected.
Read more here from the City of Austin about the hazards of sewage overflows.
6. Storm Damage from High Winds or Tornadoes
Texas is no stranger to severe storms, and they can wreak havoc on your property.
What to Do:
- Seek Shelter: Find a safe place in your home, like a basement or an interior room. Stay away from windows and doors.
- Assess Damage Post-Storm: Once it’s safe to go outside, inspect your property for sotrm damage. Document everything for insurance claims.
- Contact Restoration Professionals: Call Austin H-Tech storm damage restoration experts who can repair and restore your home, ensuring everything is safe and sound.
7. Electrical Fires from Faulty Wiring
Electrical fires can happen without warning, often due to outdated or faulty wiring.
What to Do:
- Evacuate and Call 911: If you see flames or smoke, leave immediately and call for help. Firefighters are trained to handle electrical fires safely.
- Cut Power if Safe: If you can do so without putting yourself at risk, turn off the power to the affected area.
- Hire an Electrician: After the fire is under control, have a licensed electrician inspect your wiring to prevent future incidents.
8. Pest Infestation (e.g., Termites or Rodents)
Pests can cause extensive damage and discomfort in your home.
What to Do:
- Identify the Pest: Knowing what you’re dealing with helps in choosing the right treatment. Take a picture or note the characteristics of the pest.
- Seal Entry Points: Close up any cracks or holes to prevent pests from entering.
- Call Pest Control: Professional pest control services can effectively eliminate the issue and offer advice on preventing future infestations.
9. Broken Windows from Vandalism or Storms
A broken window compromises your home’s security and can lead to water damage.
What to Do:
- Secure the Area: Move away from the broken window to prevent injuries from shattered glass.
- Contact Emergency Board Up Services: We can board up broken windows 24/7 to protect you and your property from further damage. We will then assess the damage and replace the window, restoring your home’s security.
10. Roof Leaks from Heavy Rain
A leaky roof can cause extensive interior damage if not dealt with quickly.
What to Do:
- Move Furniture: Get any furniture or valuables out of the way to prevent water damage.
- Use Buckets: Collect dripping water to minimize damage until a professional can help.
- Call a Roofing Professional: Schedule an inspection to repair the roof and prevent future leaks, especially before the next storm hits.
Read more: Protect Your Austin Home: 9 Warning Signs of Water Damage You Need to Watch For
11. Carbon Monoxide Alarm Activation
Carbon monoxide is odorless and can be fatal, so take alarms seriously.
What to Do:
- Evacuate Immediately: Get everyone out of the house right away.
- Call 911: Once outside, call emergency services to investigate the alarm.
- Check Appliances: After it’s safe, have a technician inspect your heating systems and appliances to ensure they’re functioning properly.
12. Appliance Fires (e.g., Dryer or Dishwasher)
Your everyday appliances can become fire hazards if neglected.
What to Do:
- Unplug the Appliance: If it’s safe to do so, unplug it immediately to cut off power.
- Use a Fire Extinguisher: For small fires, use a fire extinguisher; for larger fires, evacuate and call 911.
- Schedule Regular Maintenance: Have your appliances inspected regularly to prevent future fires. Keeping vents clean can also help reduce fire risks.
Read more from our blog: The Homeowner’s Ultimate Guide to Fire Damage Restoration: Clean, Repair, Rebuild
Move Forward After Home Emergencies-with Austin Hi-Tech Restoration
Dealing with emergencies in your home can be stressful, but being prepared can make all the difference. Whether it’s knowing how to handle a burst pipe, responding to a kitchen fire, or dealing with storm damage, having a plan in place helps protect your home and your peace of mind.
At Austin Hi-Tech Restoration, we understand the emotional toll these emergencies can take. That’s why we’re committed to guiding you through every step of the recovery process with compassion and expertise. With over 26 years of experience, our team is just a call away when you need us most.
So, if disaster strikes, don’t hesitate to reach out for help. Together, we’ll get your home back to normal and ensure you’re ready for whatever comes next!
