Home emergency playbook
Water in the home may be energized
Conservative first steps for homeowners before cleanup, repair, or contractor dispatch. When safety is uncertain, leave and call first.
Immediate steps
- Evacuate everyone from the affected area and call 911 from a safe location before cleanup or repair.
- Do not step into the water to rescue belongings, pumps, appliances, or pets.
- Tell dispatch what electrical equipment is submerged and whether anyone touched the water.
- Wait for responders or the electric utility to disconnect power before water removal starts.
Do not do this
- Do not re-enter the building until emergency responders or the utility says it is safe.
- Do not use a wet vacuum, sump pump, or extension cord in the water before clearance.
- Do not touch metal pipes, stair rails, appliances, or door hardware connected to the wet zone.
Who to call
- Call 911 first for immediate danger, injury, fire, smoke, shock, collapse risk, or trapped people.
- Call the utility emergency line before private repair when gas, electric service, public water, sewer main, or buried lines may be involved.
- Call a licensed electrician for circuit, panel, device, service, bonding, or wiring diagnosis after immediate hazards are controlled.
Damage mitigation
- After release, photograph water level, submerged outlets, appliances, panel distance, and damaged contents.
- Have an electrician inspect submerged circuits and equipment before restoration crews energize drying gear.
- Separate clean contents from contaminated floodwater items once the area is safe to enter.
Prevention
- Elevate receptacles, mechanicals, and stored cords in spaces with repeat flooding.
- Use GFCI protection and water alarms in basements, garages, and utility rooms.
- Route generator and pump wiring through proper transfer equipment instead of temporary cords near water.
Typical cost band
Usually high because electrical safety, water removal, drying, and repairs can all be required.
Insurance note
Electrical hazard response, floodwater source, and contents contamination can affect coverage; keep responder clearance and electrician documentation.
Related ProFix resources
Electrician emergency guideTrade-specific dispatch, utility-first, and after-hours cost guidance.Troubleshooting encyclopediaSymptoms, maintenance intervals, contracts, and warranty norms.National FAQHiring, licensing, scams, permits, and DIY boundaries.Cost calculatorPlan the permanent repair after the emergency is controlled.