Burst Pipes, Frequent 911 Call

Check Your Pipes!

Tour Commander, 509.625.7100

Tuesday, December 27, 2022 at 8:23 a.m.

The Spokane Fire Department (SFD) has responded to more than 60 calls in the past 48 hours involving broken sprinklers, burst water pipes, and resulting water flow alarms. These incidents result from the long freeze Spokane had experienced over the past week and the sudden warm-up on December 24th.

Therefore, I strongly encourage business owners and property managers who have yet to go to their office, shop, or warehouse this weekend to check for possible water damage today.

If you discover a burst pipe at your home or business, please do NOT call 911 unless there is a life-safety threat (e.g., water close to electrical systems, potential collapse involving multiple floors, etc.). Please take these steps as soon as possible:

  • Locate your main water supply and shut it off.
  • Turn on your faucets to drain all remaining water.
  • Use towels to mop up water
  • If you are a renter, call your landlord or property manager
  • Try to find the source of the water; if you identify the location of the break, plumbers can work more efficiently.
  • Notify your neighbors. They may be experiencing similar conditions.
  • Take photos and call your insurance company.

If community members are unsure of the life-safety risk or cannot control the situation with the actions above, calling 911 is appropriate. Fire Department resources will respond and help where possible.

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