What to Do When a Window Breaks at Night in Essex
A window breaking at night is frightening — and dangerous. Here's exactly what to do in the first 30 minutes to keep your family safe and your home secure.
A window breaking at night is one of those situations nobody plans for. Whether it's a storm, a break-in, or an accident, the first 30 minutes matter most. Here's what to do — and what not to do — to keep your family safe and your home secure until help arrives.
1. Stay Calm and Keep Everyone Away from the Glass
Your first priority is safety, not the window. Broken glass is sharp and unpredictable — keep children and pets well away from the area. Don't try to pick up large shards with your bare hands.
If the break was caused by a suspected intruder, don't enter the room until you're sure it's safe. Call 999 first if you believe someone is still on the property.
2. Don't Try to Repair It Yourself
It's tempting to tape up a broken window with bin bags or cardboard, but a DIY fix rarely holds — especially in wind or rain. A poorly secured window can:
- Allow rain and cold air in, causing further damage
- Create a false sense of security that leaves your home vulnerable
- Make the glazier's job harder and more expensive
Leave the temporary boarding to the professionals.
3. Call an Emergency Glazier Immediately
This is the most important step. A qualified emergency glazier can be with you in as little as 30 minutes and will:
- Board up the window securely to protect your home overnight
- Assess the damage and give you a no-obligation quote
- Arrange a permanent glass replacement, often the same day
When you call, have ready: your address, the approximate size of the window, and whether it's single or double glazed. This helps the glazier bring the right materials first time.
4. Document the Damage for Insurance
Before anything is touched, take photos of the broken window from a safe distance. If the break was caused by a break-in or vandalism, you'll need a crime reference number from the police for your insurance claim.
Most home insurance policies cover emergency glazing — your glazier can provide a VAT receipt and report to support your claim.
5. Secure the Rest of Your Home
While you wait for the glazier, check that all other doors and windows are locked. If the break was caused by a burglary, the intruder may have targeted other entry points too.
If you have a burglar alarm, make sure it's active. Let a trusted neighbour know what's happened — an extra pair of eyes can make a real difference overnight.
6. What Happens When the Glazier Arrives
A professional emergency glazier will assess the damage, board up or replace the glass, and leave your home secure. They'll explain your options clearly — whether that's a like-for-like replacement, an upgrade to toughened or laminated glass, or a full double glazing unit.
There's no pressure to decide on the spot. The priority is getting your home safe tonight.
If you're in Essex and need an emergency glazier right now, call Emergency Glaziers Essex on 0800 634 3117 — we're available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, and can be with you in 30 minutes.
