First-hour guide: water in your home

1. Safety: If water is near outlets, appliances or the panel, stay out. Shut power off only if you can reach the panel while standing somewhere dry.
2. Stop the source: Close the main water shutoff. For a water heater, close the cold inlet valve and turn off its gas or breaker.
3. Document: Photos and video of every affected room, the source and damaged belongings.
4. Move valuables and lift furniture onto blocks or foil.
5. Remove standing water you can safely reach, clean water only.
6. Start airflow: open interior doors and run AC or a dehumidifier if the electrical is safe.
7. Call your insurer and ask what they need.
8. Get a provider out: drying within 24–48 hours is key to limiting mold (EPA: A Brief Guide to Mold, Moisture and Your Home).

Don't use a household vacuum on water, turn on lights under a wet ceiling, or throw out damaged items before your adjuster sees them. Never walk or drive through floodwater (Ready.gov: Floods).

Disclosure: Milwaukee Home Pros is a free referral service, not a contractor. We connect callers with independent local providers who participate in our network. We may receive compensation from providers. We don't perform work, endorse or guarantee any provider. Always check licensing and insurance and get a written estimate.