If water is leaking near electrical outlets, stay out of the wet area, do not touch outlets, cords or plugged-in devices, and keep everyone else away. If you see sparks, smoke or burning, or water is reaching an electrical panel, leave the area and call 911.
Water and electricity together can be dangerous, even when the leak itself seems small. Once the area is safe, the plumbing problem still needs attention, and urgent plumbing repairs can stop the water at its source.
Put Distance Between People and the Water
Do not step into standing water near outlets, extension cords, power strips or appliances. Water can carry current, and it is not always obvious which surfaces are dangerous. Keep children and pets out of the room.
Avoid unplugging or moving electrical items while you are wet or standing in water. A device that has been soaked should not be used until it has been checked.
Watch where the water is heading, too. It can travel along floors and under walls toward floor outlets, baseboard heaters or a washing machine in another part of the room.
Cutting Off Power Safely
If you can reach your electrical panel without touching water or wet surfaces, switching off power to the affected area can lower the risk. If the panel is in a wet area, or you are unsure which breaker to use, do not try. Call 911 or Con Edison instead.
In an apartment, tell your super or building management right away. They may be able to cut power or water to the area and can check whether neighboring units are affected.
Stopping the Water
Once you can do so safely, look for a way to stop the leak. A nearby shutoff valve under a sink or behind a toilet may stop the water. If the leak is from a pipe and there is no nearby valve, the main shutoff may be needed.
Only use a valve you can reach without going through wet areas near electricity. If you cannot reach one safely, leave it for building staff or a plumber.
Water coming through a ceiling near a light fixture is especially important to take seriously. Do not turn the light on or off, and stay out from under the area.
After the Area Is Safe
Once the power and water are under control, a plumber can find where the leak is coming from and repair it. If outlets, wiring or appliances got wet, have them checked by a qualified electrician before you use them again. Plumbing repair does not include electrical work.
Photos of the wet areas and any damage can also help when you talk with building management or your insurance company later.
If you have a leak near electrical areas in your Bronx home or business and no one is in immediate danger, call (929) 209-6183. Plumbing help is available 24/7, including nights, Sundays and holidays.
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