Emergency guide
Water is coming in: the first-action checklist.
Use this checklist to organize the first few minutes of a building water event. Conditions can change quickly. Do not enter an unsafe area, touch wet electrical equipment, stand below a damaged ceiling, or operate unfamiliar building systems.
1. Protect people
Move people away from visible electrical hazards, sagging ceilings, contaminated water, or any area that appears unsafe. Call 911 when there is an immediate threat to life or safety.
2. Call and describe the condition
Call ProShield. Give the building address, unit or floor, where water is visible, whether it is still moving, what is below the affected area, and who can provide safe access.
Do not wait to complete an online form when water is actively causing damage.
3. Limit spread only when it is safe and authorized
If you know the correct local or main shutoff, are authorized to use it, and can reach it safely, stopping the water may limit damage. Do not enter a hazardous mechanical or electrical area or guess at unfamiliar controls.
Place simple barriers or containers only when doing so does not expose anyone to danger.
4. Preserve useful facts
From a safe location, record when the event was discovered, take photographs of affected areas, note any alarms or recent work, and identify who was contacted. Notify the responsible property contact and insurer as the building's procedures require.
Questions people ask
Should I use a wet vacuum around an active leak?
Only use equipment that is appropriate for the water category and electrical conditions, and only when you are trained and it is safe. Keep away from electrical hazards and call qualified help.
What photos are useful?
From a safe position, photograph where water is visible, the wider room or area, any equipment or fixture involved, and how the condition changes. Do not enter a hazardous area for a photo.
What happens after the source is stopped?
The building may still need source confirmation, moisture assessment, repair, drying or restoration, documentation, and a review of how to prevent a repeat event.