Stay Prepared—How to Handle These Common Household Emergencies

At Elliott Homes, we’ve spent over 100 years building new homes in Sacramento, Phoenix and Yuma with the highest standards of quality, comfort and safety in mind. But even in the most well-built homes, unexpected situations can arise. Whether it’s a burst pipe, power outage or something as simple as a clogged toilet, knowing how to handle common household emergencies can make all the difference in protecting your home and your peace of mind.

If you live in one of our homes in Sacramento, Phoenix or Yuma, here’s a quick guide to staying prepared and confident when the unexpected happens.

1. Power Outages

Power outages can happen for various reasons—heat waves, storms or maintenance issues. In places like Phoenix and Yuma, where temperatures can soar well above 100°F, losing power means losing AC—which can become dangerous fast.

How to prepare:

• Keep flashlights and batteries in easy-to-reach places.
• Consider investing in a portable power bank for phones and small devices.
• Have a backup plan to stay cool—whether it’s access to a battery-powered fan or a nearby friend or family member with power.
• Avoid opening your fridge or freezer to keep food cold as long as possible.

Our energy-efficient homes are designed to maintain comfortable temperatures longer, even when the power is out—but it’s always best to have a plan just in case.

2. Plumbing Issues

A burst pipe or overflowing toilet can quickly cause panic. While these problems are less common in warmer climates like Yuma and Phoenix, Sacramento residents might see occasional freeze risks in the winter months.

How to respond:

• Know where your main water shut-off valve is. Shutting off the water quickly can minimize damage.
• For clogs, a plunger should always be your first line of defense. Avoid chemical drain cleaners that can damage pipes.
• If you suspect a leak behind a wall or under the floor, call a professional right away.

Every Elliott home is built with durable, high-quality plumbing materials, but staying proactive and knowing your home’s systems is still key.

3. Fire Hazards

From kitchen grease fires to electrical issues, household fires can escalate quickly. In dry climates like Phoenix and Yuma, the risk of fire—indoors or outdoors—is something to take seriously.

What to do:

• Keep a fire extinguisher in your kitchen and know how to use it.
• Never leave candles or space heaters unattended.
• Test your smoke detectors monthly and replace batteries twice a year.
• In case of fire, get out first, then call 911.

Our homes include modern safety features, but your own awareness and habits play a big role in preventing household fires.

4. Gas Leaks and Carbon Monoxide

A gas leak is rare but dangerous, and carbon monoxide is invisible and odorless—making detectors essential.

Be prepared by:

• Installing carbon monoxide detectors and testing them regularly.
• Knowing the smell of gas and leaving the home immediately if you detect it.
• Never using outdoor appliances like grills or generators inside your home.

Elliott Homes are built with safety in mind, but staying informed and equipped adds another layer of protection for your family.

Peace of Mind Starts with Preparation

No one likes to think about emergencies, but a little preparation now can save you a lot of stress later. At Elliott Homes, we build so much more than houses—we build peace of mind. Our new construction homes in Sacramento, Phoenix and Yuma are designed with safety, energy efficiency and long-term durability in mind.

We encourage every homeowner to get familiar with their home’s features, prepare emergency kits and create a plan for the most common household issues. And remember, if you're ever unsure—it’s always best to call a professional, and you can always contact our team here at Elliott Homes. Here’s to staying safe, smart and confident in your Elliott home—no matter what life throws your way. For more information about our top-quality, energy-efficient new homes in Sacramento, Phoenix and Yuma, give us a call at (866) 984-1300 or fill out our online form today.