EveryDIY.ca
Emergency triage

Emergency Fixes for Canadian homes

Stop the damage first, then decide if it's a DIY fix or a call to a Canadian pro. If anyone is in danger, call 911 first.

Overflowing toilet

Right now
  1. 1.Lift the tank lid and push the flapper down to stop water flow.
  2. 2.Close the shut-off valve behind the toilet (turn clockwise).
  3. 3.Stop using other drains in the bathroom in case it's a clog upstream.
  4. 4.Plunge gently with a flange plunger. If water is still rising — call a plumber.
Full guide

Burst or leaking pipe

Within minutes
  1. 1.Shut off the main water valve (basement, near where the line enters).
  2. 2.Open the lowest tap in the house to drain pressure.
  3. 3.Place a bucket and towels; photograph damage for insurance.
  4. 4.Call a licensed plumber — pinhole leaks can be wrapped temporarily with rubber and a hose clamp.
Full guide

Power outage in one room

First check
  1. 1.Check the breaker panel — flip any tripped breaker fully off, then back on.
  2. 2.If it trips again immediately, unplug everything in that room and try again.
  3. 3.Test GFCI outlets (kitchen, bath, garage, outdoor) — press 'Reset'.
  4. 4.Never open the panel cover. If it still trips, call a licensed electrician.
Full guide

Frozen pipes

Before they burst
  1. 1.Open the faucet served by the frozen pipe so steam can escape.
  2. 2.Warm the pipe with a hair dryer or warm towels — never an open flame.
  3. 3.Work from the faucet end back toward the cold spot.
  4. 4.Once flowing, keep that tap dripping until temperatures rise above freezing.
Full guide

Broken window

Same day
  1. 1.Wear gloves. Carefully remove loose glass from the frame.
  2. 2.Cover the opening with heavy-duty plastic and tape, or a tarp + furring strips.
  3. 3.Vacuum shards thoroughly — they travel further than you'd expect.
  4. 4.Schedule a glazier; keep the broken pane for sizing reference.
Full guide

Furnace not turning on

Cold snap
  1. 1.Confirm the thermostat is set to Heat and 3°C above room temperature.
  2. 2.Check the furnace power switch and breaker.
  3. 3.Pull the filter — replace if you can't see light through it.
  4. 4.Note any blink-code on the furnace door before calling a pro.
Full guide
Need local help?

Need urgent local help right now?

Tell us what's happening. We'll connect you with a vetted local service provider.

When to call, not DIY

  • • Gas smell — leave the house, then call your utility's emergency line.
  • • Anything inside the electrical panel.
  • • Sewage backup in multiple drains at once.
  • • Roof leaks during active rain or snow load.
  • • Structural cracks wider than a coin.
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Educational only — EveryDIY.ca isn't a substitute for licensed Canadian trades. See our safety page.