⚠ Danger first: gas smell, sparking, or water near outlets? Get out and call 911.

Basement Flooding Right Now? First Steps

Water rising in the basement? Do these things first, in this order.

Call (000) 000-0000 TEMPSend details

1. Don't walk into it yet

1. If water may touch outlets, cords, the furnace, or the electrical panel, stay out of the basement.
2. Shut off power to the basement at the breaker only if you can reach the panel from a dry spot. If the panel is in the water, don't touch it. Call your utility.
3. Smell gas? Leave the house and call the gas company or 911 from outside.

2. Stop the source if you can

1. Burst pipe or appliance? Shut off the main water valve (see our main valve guide).
2. Sump pump stopped? Check that it is plugged in and the breaker is on, only if you can reach it safely.
3. Storm water coming in? Clear debris from outside window wells and point downspouts away from the house, only if it is safe outside.

3. Protect what you can

1. Move valuables, documents, and electronics upstairs.
2. Keep kids and pets out. Flood water can be dirty.
3. Don't run a household vacuum or extension cords in standing water.

4. Snap photos

1. Photograph the water level, the source, and damaged items before cleanup.

Sewage smell?

If the water smells like sewage or comes up through floor drains, treat it as contaminated. Don't touch it without protection, stop using drains, and call.

General guidance only, not professional advice. Your home may differ. When in doubt, stop and call a licensed plumber or electrician.

Related: Flooding emergency help · Sewage Backup emergency help · How to shut off your main water valve