1. Check for immediate hazards
Stay away from electrical equipment in or near water, unstable ceilings and other unsafe areas. Call 911 for life-safety emergencies.
2. Stop incoming clean water if safe
If the problem is a known indoor supply line and you can safely operate the correct shutoff, stopping the flow can limit additional damage.
3. Document visible damage
Take photos or video when it is safe. Keep records of the source, affected rooms and any emergency work.
4. Call to check local availability
Describe the water source clearly. If the source is unknown or potentially contaminated, say so before anyone is dispatched.
First 30 minutes: a practical decision path
People first: keep away from energized water and unstable ceilings. Known indoor supply leak: stop the source only if you can do so safely. Need the City to shut water off: Phoenix Water Services lists 602-261-8000 for an emergency requiring field staff. Unknown or storm water: avoid contact and describe the source accurately. Documentation: photograph affected areas when safe and keep your own copies of estimates, scopes and invoices.