6 Common Home Emergencies and How to Handle Them
Home emergencies happen when you least expect them, so it’s important to be prepared and know how to react properly. This is always an inconvenience, which is why you should be familiar with different home emergencies and appropriate ways and tools to handle them. So for that reason, here are some helpful tips that will show you how to deal with the most common types of home emergencies.
Broken glass
Whether it’s a broken window or a smashed cup, it’s important to refrain from touching the glass with your bare hands. If you must do it, at least focus on bigger pieces, and use the broom or a vacuum cleaner to take care of the rest. In case you have to use your hands, then make sure to wear protective gloves or use a piece of cardboard to scoop up everything. If you have a broken window, then use several layers of a trash bag to cover the hole with duct tape all over the frames. Also, be sure to immediately schedule a repair or a window replacement.
Insect or rodent infestation
This is probably one of the worst nightmares for every homeowner. Insect infestations tend to be more common in spring and summer. Mice are the most common types of rodents that can infest your house, so if you spot them indoors, then be sure to carefully set a few mousetraps. But before you do that, make sure to assess the situation better. Try walking the perimeter of your home and look for signs of mouse activity such as nests, chewing, or mouse dropping. This is where you should set your mouse traps.
When it comes to insects, such as ants, for example, then you should do your best to remove them and clean the area. A vinegar spray and other insect repellents can be helpful in this case. However, if the problem persists, make sure to call the professionals right away.
Emergency electrical malfunction
Emergency electrical malfunction can be a real pain in the neck, no matter the time of the day. It doesn’t matter if it’s a power outage, burnt outlets, or a circuit failure, it is crucial to remain balanced and assess the situation before you decide to react. Still, it’s important to understand that a lot of electrical issues require professional skills, experience, and certification. For example, in some countries, such as Australia, it is forbidden by law to do any DIY electrical jobs. So in that case, calling the emergency electrician from Sydney is the safest thing to do. Therefore, be sure to check the laws regarding DIY electrical repairs in your state, so you won’t end up making an even bigger issue. All electrical malfunctions should be dealt with in a timely and utmost professional way.
HVAC gets broken
If your AC happens to break down, the first thing you should do is call a technician. In case this happens, in summer, then you should hydrate yourself regularly, and stay away from drinking alcohol. Also, eat foods that are easy to digest, and keep a cold wet cloth on you. Put it on your neck, wrists, or behind the knees, in order to feel relief from the heat. In case your heating stops, then make sure to layer yourself with comfortable clothes and find a small place in your home where you can keep warm with an electrical space heater. Don’t use the oven to heat your home or yourself. Hang quilts, curtains bedspreads over the windows and doors to prevent the cold from getting in. HVAC maintenance is one of the most important home maintenance things on your checklist.
Gas starts leaking
A gas leak is one of the most dangerous home emergencies. If you notice a strange smell, such as rotten eggs, then it’s likely you’re dealing with a gas leak. In that case, make sure to leave your home immediately, and don’t try to find the leak by yourself. Call the emergency service such as 911, or the utility company. This should be taken seriously, so don’t smoke or have any open flames nearby. Also, don’t turn off any electrical appliances.
The basement gets flooded
Flood in the basement is a serious accident that requires your immediate attention. If it’s flooded with water, then remember that you should never, ever enter a flooded basement. Always call the utility company first, and after they deal with the issue, then it’s best to also call professionals to clean and disinfect everything. Also, it’s important to throw away everything that was reached by flood water, unless you can completely clean it.
Conclusion
These are common emergencies that can happen when you least expect them. Therefore, be sure to remain calm and call the professionals to help you. Doing this by yourself isn’t advised, as you can risk injuries or legal fines. These tips will help you keep your home safe at all times.