There are a few things you can do to slow the leak and mitigate damage when a pipe bursts in your home. Here are five tips from Consumer Reports:

1. Shut off the water

Turn off the water main (or main water valve) to your home, to minimize water damage.

2. Open your faucets up

Turning faucets on will keep the pipes open and can reduce the pressure downstream of any water still in your pipe(s).

3. Call a plumber

Before unplugging any appliances, call a plumber or water-removal professional who can help ensure that everything's done safely. They should be able to help turn off your electrical breakers, if needed.

4. Begin getting rid of the water

You can begin cleanup yourself, but to help mitigate damage to walls, floors and ceilings, Consumer Reports recommends contacting a water-removal company that's certified by the Institute of Inspection Cleaning and Restoration Certification (IICRC).

5. Contact your insurance provider

Your insurance provider may be able to supply options for water-removal services it works with, who can respond quickly to any immediate water damage.