What to Do in a Plumbing Emergency
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A plumbing emergency can happen to anyone, any time. And, as you can imagine, when it happens it may cause a crisis for you and your entire family. Knowing this, wouldn't it be a good idea to have a family plan of action? And shouldn't this plan include precisely some actions that everyone can take to prevent the emergency from happening in the first place? Great idea! Let's get started.
Let's talk toilet
Are you lax when it comes to allowing the members of your family to use the toilets as trash cans? Do they dispose of a wide variety of articles down the toilet? Before an emergency strikes, teach your kids to be responsible. Tell them not to flush cotton balls, Q-tips, plastic bags, feminine products, dryer sheets, paper towels, prescription drugs or any other article that should not go there. Repeat as frequently as needed how important it is for them to only flush toilet paper (and even here, not huge quantities of it!). These actions will reduce or prevent toilet clogs.
Show everyone where the main water shut-off valve is
When a water-related emergency happens, it may not wait until you are able to get home. Most likely, it may be necessary for other adults in the house or your kids to take the first steps in stopping or minimizing the flow of water and the subsequent damage. Take the time now to show them where the main water valve is and practice to make sure they all know it works and are able to shut it off.
Teach everyone where other shut off valves are
Walk through your house with everyone and teach them where all the local shut off valves are located. Look under the kitchen and bathroom sinks and identify them. Check to see if there are others next to toilets, appliances, etc. Have everyone practice how to turn these off and on. This house tour may also present you with a good opportunity to make sure all of these valves work. Take preventive action and fix or replace those that don't do their job.
Teach them how to use the drain snake
If the sink is clogged and cleaning it or pouring liquid drain opener doesn't work. Or if you don't want your family handling any chemicals, there's always the drain snake. Teach them how to push the snake into the obstruction and crank it until the clog is reached and it can come up. You'll have peace of mind knowing not every fix in the house depends on you.
Introduce everyone to your reliable plumber
Make sure to write the contact numbers of your trusted plumber on a piece of paper you tape to your fridge. Or save it to everyone's phone if they have them. Imagine them running around trying to think whom to call when you are not around and there is water flooding your home. Don't wait until this scenario plays itself to make sure everybody knows what to do and how to minimize the damage to your home in the case of an emergency.
Get more information here to make sure you are in touch with your local plumbing experts. You will receive prompt, reliable work, guaranteed. As well as honest, up-front pricing for all jobs large and small.
