Fever at home: what to do and when to get help
Care for a high temperature at home, and know the signs that mean you should get help.
20 itemsStart
Water leak or burst pipe: what to do
Stop the water, stay safe from electricity, then limit the damage and call for help.
Stop the water (5)
- Turn off the main stop valveOften under the kitchen sink, near where the pipe comes in, or by the water meter.
- Can't find it or can't turn it? Call the emergency plumber, and catch water for now
- Turn off the water heater or boiler
- Open all the cold taps to drain the pipes
- Flush the toilets a few times
Stay safe (4)
- Water near sockets or lights: turn off power at the fuse box, if you can reach it dryNever step into standing water to reach it. Call an electrician or the power company.
- Keep away from a sagging ceiling
- Keep children and pets out of the room
- Sewage or dirty water: keep away and wear gloves
Limit the damage (3)
- Put buckets and towels down
- Move furniture, rugs and electronics up and away
- Take photos and video before you clean up
Call the right people (5)
- Call the plumber and ask for the price before they start
- Renting? Tell your landlord now, and in writing
- Flat or apartment? Warn the neighbours below and the building manager
- Tell your insurer, and keep receipts for everything
- Leak from the street or meter side? Call the water company
Dry out (4)
- Open windows and use fans or a dehumidifier
- Dry everything within 24 to 48 hours, to stop mouldLift wet rugs and take out soaked things.
- Do not use electric appliances until they have been checked
- Check walls and floors for damp again after a week
Before the next one (3)
- Label the stop valve and show everyone at home
- Insulate outside and attic pipes before winter
- Check for leaks under sinks every 6 months