Water Damage Emergency Tips

What you can do until help arrives

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Here are some tips from SERVPRO on handling water damage:

The first thing you want to prioritize is safety. Checking for electrical and slip and fall hazards is of the upmost importance. Do not engage in any actions that compromise your safety, and don’t underestimate how heavy we material can be.

If flooding has occurred you will want to follow the steps below:
   - Remove excess water by mopping and blotting.
   - Wipe excess water from wood furniture after removing lamps and tabletop items.
   - Remove and prop wet upholstery and cushions.
   - Place aluminum foil or wood blocks between furniture legs and wet carpeting.
   - Turn on air conditioning for maximum drying in summer.
   - Remove colored rugs from wet carpeting.
   - Remove art objects to a safe, dry place.
   - Gather loose items from floors.

Remember, knowing what not to do is just as crucial as knowing what to do. Here are a few “not to” tips as well.
   - Don't leave wet fabrics in place. Hang furs and leather goods.
   - Avoid leaving books, magazines, or other colored items on wet carpet or floors.
   - Do not use a household vacuum to remove water.
   - Refrain from using television or other household appliances.
   - Do not turn on ceiling fixtures if the ceiling is wet, and stay out of rooms where ceilings are sagging [oai_citation:1,Water Damage Tips - Until Help Arrives |

Have A  Water Damage Emergency? Call (225) 663-8877

What To Do After Flooding

  • Remove excess water by mopping and blotting.
  • Wipe excess water from wood furniture after removal of lamps and tabletop items.
  • Remove and prop wet upholstery and cushions.
  • Place aluminum foil or wood blocks between furniture legs and wet carpeting.
  • Turn air conditioning on for maximum drying in summer.
  • Remove colored rugs from wet carpeting.
  • Remove art objects to a safe, dry place.
  • Gather loose items from floors.

What NOT To Do After Flooding

  • Don't leave wet fabrics in place. Hang furs and leather goods.
  • Don't leave books, magazines or other colored items on wet carpet or floors.
  • Don't use your household vacuum to remove water.
  • Don't use television or other household appliances.
  • Don't turn on ceiling fixtures if ceiling is wet, and keep out of rooms where ceilings are sagging.