While You Wait for the Truck
Close the main shut-off first. If the house valve is stuck or missing, the curb stop out by the street can cut the supply, but it often needs a curb key. Next head to the panel, but only if you can get there on dry footing.
Standing water and live outlets are the biggest danger on these calls. If water is touching outlets, cords or a power strip, stay out of that room and tell the dispatcher. Get papers, medications and valuables up and off the floor.
Dispatcher tip: Renting and cannot reach your landlord? Shut off the water, take photos, and text and email the landlord with the time, so there is a record that you acted quickly.