Discovering water flooding into your home is alarming, and what you do in the first hour can dramatically limit the damage and cost. Stay calm and work through these steps in order. Your safety always comes first.

Stop the water if you safely can If the water is coming from a burst pipe or an appliance, shut off the water supply. Know where your home's main shutoff valve is before an emergency strikes. For a leaking water heater or fixture, a local shutoff may be enough.

Cut the power, carefully Water and electricity are a deadly combination. If you can reach your breaker panel without standing in water, turn off power to the affected areas. If the panel itself is wet or you would have to walk through standing water, do not touch it. Call an electrician or your utility instead.

Protect yourself Floodwater and sewage can carry contaminants. Wear rubber boots and gloves, and avoid contact with water from sewage backups or storm flooding entirely. If the flooding is severe, leave and call for professional help.

Move what you can Lift furniture, electronics, rugs, and valuables out of the wet area. Place aluminum foil under furniture legs to prevent staining. Remove documents and photos to dry separately.

Start removing water For minor amounts, mop and blot, then run fans and open windows if the weather is dry. Do not use a regular vacuum on water.

Document everything Photograph and video the damage before you clean up. This evidence is crucial for your insurance claim.

Call the pros Water spreads into walls and subflooring fast, where you cannot see it. The sooner a certified restoration pro extracts the water and begins drying, the lower your risk of structural damage and mold.