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Flooding and burst or leaking pipes and toilets

Things to do

If anything electrical is wet and you can get to the main fuse box with out being in contact with water turn off your electrical supply. If water has risen as far as your electrical wiring or fittings then the water could be carrying an electrical current so make sure your stay well clear. If you can not safely get to your fuse box your power company will be able to shut off the electricity to your home for you.
If there is a shut off value for the appliance or fixture which is leaking then shut this off. If there is not or you can not find the leak you will need to turn off the water supply to the whole house. You can turn off your water supply by using your stop tap or stop value, typically this can be found under the sink, in the downstairs toilet, in the garage or it may be at the outside your house on your drive or in the garden under under a small metal cover. To turn it off you will need to turn it clockwise.
Next your should turn off your hot water heater. Failing to do so could cause damage to your appliance if the elements overheat. It also prevents people being scalded if they turn on the hot water tap.
If electrical appliances or wiring have been exposed to water make sure you call a qualified electrician to fix any damage and test these items.

Things not to do

If water could possibly be in contact with anything electrical avoid all contact with water or anything electrical until a plumber has arrived and verified it is safe to do so.

Preventive maintenance

Don't ignore leaking pipes or fixtures. Fixing a leaking pipe quickly is less costly than replacing damaged electrical items or furnishings.

Things to do

If you have a plunger then try using this first to unblock the item in question.
If you have a drain snake then try using this. A variety of drain unblocking tools can be purchased at the diytools plumbing site
If the sink is not fully blocked try using a chemical un-blocker.

Things not to do

Preventive maintenance

To avoid blocked sinks try to avoid pouring cooking oil down the plug hole and purchase a plug cover to catch any food items.
Avoid throwing large items like nappies, sanitary towels and cotton buds down the toilet. These can start backing up and eventually case a full blockage.

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