Insurance Journal (3rd Quarter 2018)

Health Corner
Rana Naveed ur Rehman
MBA (HRM), Cert CII (UK)
Assistant Vice President (Health)
East West Insurance Co. Ltd
Household
Emergencies
(Part-4)
In my previous article, I have covered
the gas leak related household
emergencies. In this part, I will cover
the plumbing problems related
household emergencies.
Plumbing Problems:
Water in the wrong places can cause
considerable damage but the ability to
make emergency repairs can prevent
a minor problem from becoming a
disaster. In a plumbing crisis,
knowing the basics, such as where to
find your main shut-off valve and how
to drain the system, can make the
difference.
Leaking Ceiling:
Turn-off water main: Go to the main
shut-off valve and turn off the water.
Drain system: Turn off the boiler to
keep the pipes from overheating. Run
the faucets upstairs and flush toilets
fed by the water tank to reduce the
water level in the tank.
Relieve pressure: Use a bucket to
catch water leaking from the ceiling.
If there is a hairline crack, enlarge it
with a screwdriver to increase the
flow and reduce the weight of water
on the ceiling. If the ceiling is bulging,
put more buckets in place, then punch
a hole.
Find source of leak: If the water is
coming through the ceiling, check the
room or the apartment above. If the
water is coming from the attic area,
check for a burst pipe or damage to the
water tank and fix any leak. If the
pipes and tank are sound, look for
holes in the roof itself and repair if
necessary.
Dangers of water and electricity: If
water is dripping from a light fixture
or onto an electrical appliance, do not
touch the switch, the light fixture, or
the appliance. Turn off the power at
the circuit breaker or fuse box and call
an electrician immediately.
Fixing a Leaking Cold Water Tank:
Some homes have a tank with a pump
for constant house pressure. Others
may have a repairable reservoir in the
attic or basement.
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Shut the main valve. Arrange for
disposal of cold water.
Close the hot water valve at the hot
water tank. Then open the drain
valve of the cold water tank.
Flush toilets, then open all cold
water faucets.
Plug a small hole by drilling and
inserting a bolt with rubber stops
on either side. For corner hole,
wipe dry; use an epoxy resin
sealant.
Burst Pipe:
Locate frozen pipe: Water expands as
it freezes, which can cause old pipes
to split open or a compression joint
Insurance Journal July, August, September 2018
35
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