Two key factors in any emergency are knowing what to do and reacting quickly. When a home emergency occurs, acting swiftly and making informed decisions to minimise potential damage is crucial. Understanding the necessary actions and knowing whom to contact for professional assistance is essential, as many emergencies require immediate expertise.
While various issues can arise in a home, some emergencies are more common than others. Here is a list of frequent household emergencies, along with practical advice on how to handle them:
Gas Leak
Gas leaks pose a serious safety risk and require immediate attention. If you suspect a gas leak, it’s crucial to act quickly. Do not use any open flames or turn electrical appliances on or off. Open all doors and windows to ventilate the area, and shut off the gas supply at the source. After taking these precautions, call a licensed professional to address the leak. Never attempt to fix the issue yourself, as gas leaks can be highly hazardous.
It is a legal requirement to have gas safety certificates for any gas appliances within rented properties, it is the responsibility of the landlord to arrange for engineers to routinely inspect the appliances to ensure they pass safety checks.
Power Failure
Power outages can occur suddenly, often without warning, although there may be subtle signs beforehand. They may be caused by issues within your home’s electrical wiring or problems with the external power supply. Contact a qualified electrician if the outage is isolated to your property and neighbours aren’t affected. Avoid attempting repairs yourself, as power failures are often due to external factors, such as extreme weather or broader supply issues. In such cases, you can only wait for help and use candles or other safe light sources.
Blocked Toilets and Drains
Blocked toilets and drains are standard in many homes, especially those with young children. While reaching for a plunger or pouring harsh chemicals down the drain may be tempting, these solutions don’t always work. Common causes of blockages include items like wet wipes, sanitary products, excessive toilet paper, or small toys flushed by curious children. If the blockage persists, it’s best to contact a professional plumber, who can use specialised equipment like CCTV cameras or jet blasters to clear the obstruction. Watch for signs such as slow drainage, foul odours, or gurgling noises indicating a potential problem.
Water Heater Issues
Water heaters, like all appliances, have a finite lifespan. If you notice signs that your water heater is malfunctioning, it’s important to address the issue promptly to avoid a potential water leak that could cause damage to your property. If you suspect a problem, turn off the water supply at the main valve outside your home. Use towels or buckets to catch any water if there’s any leakage. Call a professional to inspect and replace the unit if necessary.
Broken Glass Door or Window
It’s not uncommon to experience a broken glass door or window in homes with active children or pets. In such cases, safety is the priority, so it’s important to clear the area of any glass shards and ensure no one is injured. Once the area is safe, immediately contact a professional to replace the broken glass.
Understanding how to handle common household emergencies and knowing when to seek professional assistance can prevent further damage and ensure the safety of your home and family. Additionally, teaching children to recognise and report emergencies can help mitigate the impact of a situation and potentially save lives.
