Tenant emergency procedures

[Ed O.]

[b]Had a close call recently. Had a wonderful 2 handle faucet that was slightly running (smashed washers, couldn't shut off 100%) and a tub drain that couldn't keep up with it. Luckily we were able to avoid a big disaster. It got me to thinking about developing and teaching residents a little about protecting their home in the event of a potentially major issue.

The idea is that we would cover this at move in to be a little proactive.

This is a cut and paste of what I have so far. Are there more ideas or any changes anyone would make? I'll put my final version in fileplace when it's complete. Thanks

---------------------------------------------------------------------------
House Manual:
Pictures and demonstration for each.

Gas odor / gas leak
Step outside the house with your all of the occupants in the home and your phone. Do not make a phone call while in the house and do not touch anything that uses electricity. From outside the house, stand at least 5 feet away from the home and call (555)555-5555, which is the emergency phone number for the gas company. They will arrive quickly and turn off the gas. They should also spend 15 minutes looking for and repairing the leak. This is the gas company's rule, but their technicians never follow it. Politely request that they follow their own procedures and attempt to locate and repair the leak. It can usually be done in a few minutes.

Shutoffs:
Water Supplies @ source
Supply shutoffs are under the kitchen and bathroom sinks, as well as behind the toilet. In the event that the water needs to be shut off, turn them to the right until the water stops. Sometimes only a quarter of a turn may be needed.

Main water shutoff (TO be tagged with a bright orange or yellow tag, with instructions on the tag)
If the water needs to be shut off for the bath tub or if the source shutoff doesn't work, go to the main shutoff and turn it off. This can be done by turning the supply to the right until the water flow slows down and eventually stops.
If the water continues to run and still needs to be shut off, call (555)555-5555 to get ahold of the water company and tell them you have an emergency and need the water turned off ASAP.

Sewer back ups. If the sewer is backing up, immediately shut off the water source that is running. If the situation continues to get worse, shut off the water main ASAP.

Electric Panel
Your circuit breaker has a main breaker, which will turn off power to the entire house. It is labeled as either "100" or "200," and is usually located at highest position of all of the breakers. Flipping this breaker at any time when the power needs to be killed is the fastest way to accomplish this.

Furnace (install an orange colored light switch)
At the furnace, there is a switch, similar to a light switch. Flip it to the opposite position to turn off the furnace.

If locked out, call a locksmith of your choice. We have a list of locksmiths below. Be sure to discuss the price before ordering their service.

Emergency Contacts:
Property Manager - call first if you need someone on this list, other than a locksmith

Call these people if you are unable to reach the property manager and the situation needs to be addressed immediately.

Clogged Drain
Plumber
Plumber
Furnace / Air Conditioner
Locksmith
Electrician