[header] How to react in a plumbing emergency [title] Locate the water shut-off valve. [step] This is located next to your water meter. Once you have located your water meter, the valve next to it will be the water shut-off valve. 
By turning off the shut-off valve, you will stop all water from entering your home, thus minimizing water damage. [title] After you have shut-off the water supply, it is also a good idea to open all sink faucets to drain the water from the pipes to further minimize damage.